3/12/21: @Isle

Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/v/2FCcL7

JV: W

V: W (85-52)

Boys win 4th straight conference title

Staff report

The Dragons boys varsity basketball squad lost to a strong Milaca squad on Thursday, but came back the next night to beat Isle and claim the conference championship for the fourth straight year in a row. 

Pine City 85, Isle 52

The Dragons didn’t have much time to think about their loss. The following night they were playing a road game in Isle for a chance to earn a piece of the conference title with a win. 

“We came out firing on all cylinders and really looked good on both ends of the court,” Allen said. “The boys were focusing on what is important in our system and looked rejuvenated on the court.” 

The team got back to their hot shooting, hitting 44% from the three-point line. 

 “In our estimation, shooting has been an Achilles heel for a lot of teams this year with the weird offseason,” Allen said. “It was nice to see all our hard work that has gone into our shooting pay off to a higher degree. Shooting is mostly mental; we know what we are capable of doing. We have to focus on the correct aspect of shooting and let our work show for itself when the games come.”

He said that the team played with a sense of purpose, playing for the championship and a possible home playoff game. “Those are two of our goals coming into every year, and I was proud that we were able to check those off the list.”

Allen noted that the Dragons rebounded well as a team. Kameron Jusczak led the Dragons with seven. Jason Thieman had five while Luke Wilson, Colton Blaisdell, Cole Waxberg, and Dylan Petersen each had four. Jusczak paced the squad on offense with six assists followed by Petersen with five and Wilson with four. Wilson and Jusczak each had three steals as well. Wilson and Waxberg each took a charge in the game.

“As I reflect on the last year, the last four, and the last 10, it has been quite a journey,” Allen said. “I am proud of what we have been able to build in terms of our program in both purpose and goals. Winning four straight conference titles is a great feat. We hope to be able to enter the playoffs on a good note and give ourselves a chance even though we find ourselves in maybe the toughest section in the state. 

“Every year brings its own set of obstacles to overcome and this year has been no different,” he said. “I am so proud of how our boys have continued to fight through adversity and stay strong on our yearly goals. They are a great group of kids.”