Mahnomen/Waubun @ Red Lake Falls

Recap

The Mahnomen Waubun Thunderbirds relied on their defense to hold on for the win over Red Lake Falls 62-56 to start the season at 1-0.  After a close first half that saw 6 lead changes and 5 ties, the Thunderbirds were able to use a few small runs to build an 8 point lead at the half at 31-23, with their defense forcing the Eagles into 18 first half turnovers.  The Thunderbirds would come out in the 2nd half and build a quick 12 point lead only to see Red Lake Falls chip away through out the course of the half and eventually cut the lead to 1 at 48-47 and eventually tie the game at 54 all.  It would again be the defense of the Thunderbirds that would be the difference forcing more turnovers and making key plays down the stretch to come away with the win.

MW stats

12 of 23 from the line, 18 turnovers

Kendra Syverson 26 pts

Savannah Keezer 11 pts

Alaina Bevins 8 pts

comments from MW coach Zack Qual

RLF stats

21 of 31 from the line, 31 turnovers

Shandi Nelson 18 pts

Gabby Casavan 9 pts

Emma Knott 8 pts

comments from RLF coach Brian Remick

JV RLF over MW 27-12