Gladstone Boys’ Basketball Dominates Green Bay West in Border Battle

The Gladstone boys’ basketball team showcased their defensive prowess in a dominant performance against Green Bay West in the Border Battle tournament. After a slow start, the Braves picked up their energy and turned the game in their favor, securing a 41-21 victory.

Slow Start but Strong Finish

Gladstone initially struggled in the first quarter, trailing 14-5 as Green Bay West took an early lead. However, the Braves quickly turned the tide with their tight man-to-man defense, holding the Wildcats scoreless in the second quarter.

Senior Drake Johnson played a crucial role in the turnaround, splitting a pair of free throws to tie the game at 14. The Braves continued their momentum with layups from senior Nick Matthews and sophomore Owen Gereau, ending the first half with an 18-14 lead.

Third Quarter Dominance

Gladstone carried their momentum into the third quarter, with Johnson sinking an 18-foot jumper to extend their lead to 27-14. Green Bay West struggled to find their offensive rhythm against the Braves’ suffocating defense.

The Braves finished the third quarter with a 7-0 run, highlighted by a buzzer-beating 20-foot jumper from senior Kaden Gibbs. This run solidified Gladstone’s lead at 34-17, putting the game out of reach for their opponents.

Strong Finish Secures Victory

Gladstone continued to dominate in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to 39-17 with a layup from Gereau. The Braves’ solid teamwork, passing, and defense proved too much for Green Bay West to overcome.

Matthews led the Braves in scoring with 10 points, followed closely by Johnson with nine and Gibbs with eight. On the opposing side, senior JaySean Wright contributed nine points for the Wildcats.

Coach’s Take

Gladstone’s coach, Jake Kiesby, praised his team’s performance and defensive effort. He highlighted the importance of good ball pressure and credited the players’ ability to handle pressure situations. The Braves committed only 11 turnovers, compared to Green Bay West’s 14.

Looking Ahead

Gladstone (3-5) will aim to carry their momentum into their next game as they face Iron Mountain. The Braves have been working on minimizing turnovers and improving their composure under pressure.

In other Border Battle tournament action, Menominee (7-1) emerged victorious with a 63-37 win over Marinette (2-10). The Upper Peninsula team showcased their dominance, led by senior Trevor Theuerkauf’s 19 points.

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