United Tribes Wins Close Contest against Lake Region

United Tribes took a hard fought win over the Lake Region State College Royals 75-72 to move to 11-1 at home this season and 15-9 overall.  It was the Thunderbirs 3rd straight conference win.  Thursday's game was a tight one with 4 ties and 8 lead changes, but the Thunderbirds made enough free throws down the stretch and got some key defensive stops to secure the game. 

The Thunderbirds struggled to score in the first half against the Mon Dak Conference's best defense, but were able to stay in the game with by getting defensive stops.  Lake Region took thier largest lead of the game 25-16 on two Ben Hoverson freethrows with 6:10 to play in the half.  Tribes found a little offensive rhythym the last 6 minutes of the half and closed the gap to 36-30 on a DK Middleton two handed slam.

In a second half that didn't see much separtation between the two teams United Tribes took a 64-57 lead on a Middleton free throw with 2:20 to play.  Carson Henningsgard answered with a three pointer for the Royals to close the gap to 64-60 with 2 minutes to go.  After the teams swapped trips to the foul line Middleton converted a three point play with with 1:19 left to push the lead to 68-63.   Sylvester Union stole the ball on the next possesion and the Thunderbirds were able to convert enough at the free throw line to seal the game 75-72.

Middleton led the way with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists. Union added 13 points and 4 rebounds.  Also reaching double figures were Tahj Two Bulls with 10 points and 5 rebounds and Jayce Archambault finished with 10 points and 4 assists.

The Thunderbirds conclude a three game home stand with a game against Williston State College on Monday at 7:30 pm.