Minneapolis made the hour drive to Republic County in hopes of getting a couple wins. The girls team looked to bounce back after a tough loss last friday against Southeast of Saline, and the boys team looked to expand on their already great 11 win season.

The girls game was first, and Minneapolis jumped out to an early lead in the first half. 13-6 was the score after Karisma Vignery got things started with a couple of free throws and a 3 pointer.

In the second quarter, the girls got started by continuing to hold the Lady Buffs to limited offensive output, eventually getting up to a ten point lead. Late in the 2nd, the Lady Buffs were able to get things going, and behind 5 points from Emma Morris, and 4 points from Alexis Hansen, they cut it down to a 2 point deficit going into half. Halftime score 21-19, Minneapolis ahead by 2.

Both teams came out of the locker room ready to go, but nothing could stop the offensive firestorm that the Lady Lions brought. Courtney Forte knocked down 8 points in the third quarter alone, along with a couple of 3’s from Vignery. 3rd quarter score 40-29, Minneapolis leading the way.

In the 4th quarter, the game got interesting, as Taylor Gardener refused to go away. She made a heroic effort in the final stanza, putting up 12 points. It was not quite enough however, and Minneapolis came away with the win, 54-48.

The nightcap featured the boys game, and it was not near as exciting. The Lions jumped out to an early 8-0 lead, sparked by a 3 pointer by Trent Moeckle. The Lions fell in love with the 3 however, and only scored 2 more points in the rest of the first. Minneapolis led after the first 10-3.

The second quarter was better for the Lions, but no different for the Buffs. Offensive output increased, and the Lions went into the Locker room leading 29-7.

The second half, Head Coach John Darrow kept his starters in, in an attempt to prove to his team that they can play well with a big lead. They did just that, and continued to run up the scoreboard for the second half. Minneapolis finished the game off 58-23. 11/12 players on the Minneapolis varsity roster scored points tonight, a great show of depth for this Lions basketball team.

Both teams are back in action this Friday at home against Beloit for Senior night.

https://soundcloud.com/minneapolis-lions/minneapolis-girls-2-12-19