Chieftains run over Cats, get dropped by Raiders

By Ginna Young

Lake Holcombe’s boys basketball program made short work of a conference foe to start the week, but faltered to end the week.

Jan. 31 vs. Birchwood conference (W 79-68)

To begin the first of the two away games, the Chieftains packed up and headed to Birchwood, where they went on a 20-0 run to start the game. Lake Holcombe took a 13-point leaded into halftime and never gave up their lead, despite getting outscored in the second half.

The Chieftains held on to retain a 79-68 victory. Senior Harley Schroeder finished the night with a double- double, including 10 rebounds and 12 points, while Trent Nitek had a good defensive game, pulling down 10 rebounds and chipping in with 5 points. Sophomore Brian Strzok led the scoring with 24 points and sophomore Ryley Craker was close behind, with 22.

Craker also led the team with 7 assists, and junior Taye Yeager had another strong night, with 16 points and 6 assists.

“The team hit 12, threes on the night, which helped secure the victory,” said coach Joy Webster.

Feb. 3 vs. Bruce conference (L 91-38)

A few days later, Lake Holcombe headed to Bruce, in hopes of unseating the Raiders, but it wasn’t to be, as the Chieftains were outgunned in the game.

Lake Holcombe trailed by 30 points at the break and never regained their offensive footing, watching the game go to the home team, 91-38. With the loss, the Chieftains now sit at 6-11 overall and are 5-7 in the East Lakeland Conference.

Strzok led the way for Lake Holcome, notching 14 points, followed by Yeager, with 12, while Schroeder added 8. Nitek and Craker each chipped in on the night, with 2 points.