Bryson Van Grootheest hit a basket as time expired to give Rock Valley a 61-59 win over Boyden Hull Tuesday night. The teams met at Sheldon for the District 3 title and a spot in Substate on Saturday in Spencer.
Rock Valley outshot Boyden Hull from behind the arc 6-1 in the first half for a 5 point lead at the half 29-24. The game was tied at 14-14 at the end of the first quarter. At the end of three the Rockets were still in front 48-43. They built the lead to 13 at one point in the fourth quarter before Tanner Te Slaa led the comeback. He would score 13 of his game high 30 in the fourth quarter as the Comets pulled even at 57-57 with the clock running down.
In the final seconds Bryson Van Grootheest controlled a loose ball and pulled the trigger with 1.1 seconds left just off the left end of the free throw line. The shot dropped and Rock Valley had the win 61-59.
Sheldon really enjoyed hosting the 2A District 3 Championship game last night. Great atmosphere for competition and an awesome ending to a great game! Looking forward to getting back to work with our team and being in position to play this type of game! pic.twitter.com/KEA6RXyMSt
— Eric Maassen (@MrMaassenSHS) February 23, 2022
Rock Valley put all 5 starters in double figures with Van Grootheest hitting for 23. Landyn Van Kekerix hit for 13 with 9 coming in the second half. Sam Remmerde had 13 as well with 8 coming in the first quarter. Dawson Van Beek hit for 12 including 3 of the teams 10 three points baskets in the contest.
Te Slaa was the games top scorer with 30. He was joined by Bryan Zylstra with 15 including 11 second half points.
With the win Rock Valley moves on to Substate with an 18-5 record. Boyden Hull ends the year at 21-2. The Rockets will meet the winner of Estherville Lincoln Central and Okoboji. That game was postponed to Wednesday night due to Tuesday’s weather. The Substate game will be played Saturday at the Field House in Spencer with the winner on to the State Tournament. We’ll bring you the broadcast on KIWA Radio.
