2/22/18: Moose Lake-Willow River

Pine City Pioneer, Jesse Logan

Pine City 85, Moose Lake-Willow River 65

Its hard to tell by the score, but this game actually featured some solid defense by both teams and lots of physical play. Like in previous seasons, the game was close throughout the first half with Pine City up 40-34 at the break. With four players in double digits, the Dragons balanced attack would be just too much firepower for the Rebels in the second half.

“Very fun atmosphere and exciting game,” said Coach Allen. “Our boys were ready to go from the tip. They’re a good team with a lot of great ball players, which made for an exciting contest. Our defense was swarming all night, did a great job of recovering and attacking. Clay Logan showed up in this game on the offensive end, looking unstoppable at times. Jake Adams continued his pesky defensive effort that led to good looks on the offensive end. Konnor Jusczak had one of the best stretches of his varsity career during this game. (Three big threes and taking several charges are) huge splash plays that can be game changers.”

Logan led the way with 23 points, Adams added 17, Hansmann had 14, and Jusczak 11. Pine City’s inside game was somewhat naturalized by the Rebels power in the post, but the Dragons did good work on the interior defensively, which Allen also said was a key.

With the Dragons now sitting at 20-5, sights will shift to the final home game of the regular season. Pine City will host the Hinckley-Finlayson Jaguars on Friday, March 2 and a share of the Great River Conference Championship is on the line. The two teams battled hard back in January with the Jags eeking out a two-point victory. Pine City is looking for a share of the conference crown for the first time in a decade.

Varsity: W (85-65)
JV: W (75-71)
C-Squad: L (28-55)