Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s Defeats Sleepy Eye in Tomahawk Conference Showdown

Staff photo by Ari Selvey: Sleepy Eye St. Marys’ Will Walter (11) celebrates with teammate Adam Steffensmeier (2) after a Tomahawk Conference boys basketball win over Sleepy Eye Thursday at St. Mary’s High School.

Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s emerged victorious in a thrilling Tomahawk Conference boys basketball game against rival Sleepy Eye. With the score tied at 50, Brandon Schmitz’s clutch 3-pointer secured a 54-52 win for the Knights.

Will Walter led the Knights with an outstanding performance, contributing 24 points and 10 rebounds. Schmitz also played a pivotal role, scoring 16 points and making the game-winning shot.

The Knights’ victory gave them a one-game advantage over the Indians in the Tomahawk Conference standings. St. Mary’s had previously lost to Sleepy Eye 60-45 in their first matchup of the season.

The game featured strong defensive play from both teams, with St. Mary’s able to hold Sleepy Eye to just 22 points in the first half. The Knights capitalized on a 15-2 run in the first half to establish a lead they would maintain until the final seconds.

Sleepy Eye made a valiant comeback effort in the second half, but St. Mary’s defense stood tall and secured the victory. Landon Wendinger led the Indians with 20 points, 18 rebounds, and four blocks, while Brayden Heiderscheidt contributed 15 points, three rebounds, three assists, and four steals.

St. Mary’s head coach Judd Walter praised his team’s defensive effort, recognizing the impact it had on the game. The Knights’ strong defensive presence, combined with key offensive contributions, proved to be the difference-maker in securing the win.

Both teams showcased their defensive prowess and intensity throughout the game. Despite facing shooting struggles in recent games, Sleepy Eye’s defense remained reliable, providing a strong foundation for their comeback attempts.

In the closing minutes, Sleepy Eye fought hard to tie the game at 50-50, but Schmitz’s clutch 3-pointer swung the momentum back in St. Mary’s favor. Sleepy Eye had a chance to tie or win the game in the final possession, but St. Mary’s defense held strong, ultimately sealing the victory.

The win marks a crucial victory for St. Mary’s in the Tomahawk Conference standings, enhancing their playoff prospects. Both teams exhibited determination and resilience, making for an exciting and closely contested game.

St. Mary’s will look to carry their momentum into their upcoming game against Cedar Mountain, while Sleepy Eye prepares for a matchup with Wabasso.