Lakota West Opens Inaugural Kemba Credit Union MLK Classic with Big 61-22 Win Over Hamilton
Less than 24 hours after falling 72-71 in overtime against La Lumiere (IN), Lakota West proved it shouldn’t be taken lightly this season, defeating Hamilton soundly 61-22.
Lakota West’s dominance was on display early, as the Firebirds opened the game by going on a 16-2 run that featured eight points by junior Josh Tyson and two fast breaks. Tyson went on to score 11 points in the quarter, in part thanks to three made baskets from beyond the arc. As a result, Lakota West took a 17-point advantage into the second frame at 21-4.
The second quarter consisted of much of the same for the two teams, as the Firebirds went on a 12-3 run to extend their lead to 33-7 with 2:08 to go. Brayden Goldner contributed four points over that stretch. The teams traded baskets in the closing minutes of the half, but Lakota West still emerged with a comfortable 39-11 advantage entering the locker room. Knox Mills led the Big Blue in scoring with five first-half points.
The Firebirds opened the second half on an 8-1 scoring run and never looked back in the third quarter. A Bryce Curry free throw gave Lakota West a 47-12 lead and initiated the running clock rule. Curry totaled six points in the frame courtesy of four made shots to help Firebirds enter the fourth quarter with a 52-14 advantage.
Neither team could build momentum in the fourth quarter, but Lakota West still closed out a decisive 61-22 victory. Goldner added six points—including four in the waning minutes—to his ledger, while Kaleb Sprague and Blake Sams added threes for Hamilton.
The Firebirds were dynamite from the free-throw line, shooting 7-for-8. Lakota West also won the foul battle, committing seven fouls while their opponents totaled 11. Junior guard Knox Mills led the way for the Big Blue, posting seven points.
Hamilton (8-7, 4-5 GMC) will now head back home to face GMC rival Middletown on Friday, January 23. Meanwhile, Lakota West (14-1, 9-0 GMC) will take on Mason on the road in GMC play on Friday, January 23.
