Tuesday, Feb. 10
Xavier 57, Shawano 56
Xavier was flat for much of the second half but scored at the end when it mattered most in a 57-56 Bay Conference win over Shawano.
“Despite the tough result, the Hawks showed tremendous heart, resilience and competitiveness throughout the night,” coach Joel Doxtator said.
Shawano’s six-point lead at the half quickly disappeared as Xavier scored the first 11 points of the second half to grab a 40-35 lead. But, once Xavier got to 43 points, the offense when silent for much of the second half as Shawano bounced back to grab a nine-point lead. Xavier clawed its way back in the final minutes for the win.
Shawano was powered offensively by an outstanding performance from Will Verkuilen, who poured in 23 points and consistently stepped up in key moments. Jack Nordin added 21 points of his own, attacking the basket and knocking down big shots to keep the Hawks within striking distance.
“The duo set the tone offensively and demonstrated the kind of leadership and confidence that will continue to fuel the team moving forward,” Doxtator said.
With just 1.5 seconds remaining, Shawano had one last opportunity to complete the comeback. The potential game-winning shot looked promising but bounced off the rim in a heartbreaking finish.
“Even in defeat, the Hawks proved they can compete with anyone and showed the determination that will serve them well as the season continues,” Doxtator said.
Shawano fell to 2-10 in the conference and 6-13 overall.
Tigerton 66, Amherst 41
Amherst scored the first 11 points but then two scoring droughts of their own as Tigerton pulled its way back into the game and the lead. By halftime, the Tigers were leading the Falcons 28-15 and the visitors improved to 19-0 overall with a 66-41 win.
James Brady scored 34 points, followed by Caleb Dahlstrom with nine and Izaiah Lederhaus with six.
Brady also led Tigerton with eight rebounds. Cameron Carlson nabbed five, and Tanner Dent grabbed four.
Brady and Carlson each had a block.
Sam Anheuser had eight assists, while Lederhaus had five, and Brody Miller contributed three.
Other scores: Gresham 68, Faith Christian Academy 60; Bowler 68, Port Edwards 53; De Pere 68, Pulaski 38; Tri-County 68, Marion 36; Marathon 77, Wittenberg-Birnamwood 49; St. Thomas Aquinas Academy 50, Gillett 37; Suring 55, Lena 49.
