Neer Girls Runner-up in 32nd

It is no secret that the SK girls’ program has been built on defense during Coach Stowers’ tenure as the Neer coach. They have been at the top or near the top in the state in scoring defense several seasons. It is usually their goal to keep the opposition to single digits. Their trademark defense was lacking big time tonight as the Walton Verona Bearcats rocketed to a whopping 48 first half points against the Neers in the 32nd District Finals. It wasn’t that the SK effort wasn’t there because it was.  They actually played as hard as they have in any game.  What was missing was the in your face pressure, the defensive rotations and help. I can’t remember them giving up 48 points in one half as WV would lead by as many as 18 first half points, a lead that SK could not overcome. Walton did shoot extremely well but the looks they got were just too easy.  The SK defense is no doubt complicated and requires everyone to operate in unison.  That just didn't happen tonight.   

SK would never quit. They came out in the third and jumped on Walton early as they cut the lead to single digits. The Neers had trouble sustaining any kind of momentum as the Walton Verona bigs, Sandlin and Judy, went for 29 and 19 respectively. SK simply could not stop the duo from scoring.  

SK was led by the backcourt of Stephenson and Owings who would go for 24 and 20. Both of these outstanding players were visibly upset with the loss which I’m sure is something Coach Stowers will have them channel towards taking out on their next opponent.  

While this game certainly wasn’t what the Neers were looking for, they still make the regional tourney and know that they have a chance of winning the tourney if they play the way they can. They have been playing well as of late but need to get some more consistency throughout a game and rid their roller coaster play. Congrats on making the tourney girls and get back to work; I’m ready for another trip to Western!

The boys take their turn tomorrow night in the 32nd District Final at Grant County versus Grant County.  Get their early as I'm sure the Brave fans will pack the place.