South O’Brien used a strong showing in the second half to close out the regular season with a 53-45 victory over Gehlen Catholic February 11 at Le Mars. The Wolverines entered tournament play with a record of 13-8.
The Jays led 21-18 at halftime. Scoring picked up in the third quarter where the Wolverines outscored their hosts 20-15 to take the lead. Over the final eight minutes South O’Brien allowed only nine points while scoring 15 to leave with the win.
The Wolverines were more accurate from the field, shooting 43 percent (19-of-44) compared to 34 percent (18-of-53) for Gehlen. South O’Brien shot exceptionally well from three-point range, making half of its 16 long range tries. The Wolverines were 7-of-10 from the free throw line. The Jays went 4-for-14 from long range and 5-for-6 at the charity stripe.
Jake Wallin led South O’Brien with 24 points, 14 boards and three blocked shots. Adding to the scoring total were Boston Riedemann and David Bottjen with seven points apiece, Ben Woodall with six, Sawyer Honkomp with five and Jacob Van Lith and Pete Bottjen with two apiece. Helping distribute the ball were Hudson Oolman with three assists and Van Lith with two.
Helping the Wolverines finish with a 35-24 edge on the boards were Oolman with seven rebounds and Van Lith with five. Oolman made two steals and Van Lith one as Gehlen turned the ball over seven times. South O’Brien was guilty of 12 turnovers.
S. O’Brien
8 10 20 15 – 53
Gehlen
12 9 15 9 – 45