United Tribes Falls to Dakota County Technical Colllege in Region XIII Championship

United Tribes started fast and raced out to an early 15-7 lead against the visiting Blue Knights of Dakota County Techncial College.  Unfortunately from that point on the Thunderbirds struggled to score the basketball. 

Tribes came into the game leading the nation in three pointers made per game, but only connected on 3 in Sunday afternoons Region XIII Champiohship Game.  Despite the struggle from the three point line the Thunderbirds were still clinging to a 23-22 lead with 3:30 left to go in the first half thanks to a solid defensive effort.  The Blue Knights closed on a 17-4 run to end the half and go into the locker room with a 39-27 lead. 

The game stayed about that margin for the duration of the second half and with two minutes remaining Dakota County held an 80-70 lead.  Tribes just could not get a big shot to fall from the three point line to rally.  They finished 1-13 from three in the second half.  

Cecelio Montgomery led the scoring with 20.  Tate Bear and Tyree Florence-Patton also added 16 a piece.  Lorenzo Smith finished with 29 to lead the Blue Knights.

United Tribes finishes as the region runner up for the second straight year and finishes 17-13 overall.  

Dakota County will play in the District Championship game this Saturday March 7th at Central Community College in Colombus, Nebraska.  They will be seeking their 5th straight appearance in the National Tournament.