The #7 (2A) Aplington-Parkersburg boys basketball team turned an 11-point deficit into an 11-point win, defeating Hampton-Dumont-CAL 64-53 Thursday, as aired on 99 The Wave.
The Bulldogs took control of the game with the size of Brady Harr, making it difficult for AP’s posts to score. Three-pointers by Hunter Rieken and Tramaine Horton helped build the lead to as many as 11 points, and the Bulldogs had the advantage most of the way. The Falcons used full-court pressure to force the Bulldogs into some quick shots, and took advantage at the other end. A reverse layup by Cole Brouwer cut it to one possession, and Benny Waller hit a free throw to put the Falcons in front at the 1:51 mark of the fourth quarter. AP sealed the game at the free throw line after some more crucial buckets and stops.
“Credit to Hampton-Dumont-CAL for their effort and how hard their kids played and their execution,” Head Coach Aaron Thomas says. “They shot the ball very well early. We did not shoot it very well. They were physical with our guards. Limited us there, but we went to the zone in a little more of a pressing full court, try to just speed them up or make them make some decisions. We were able to get some turnovers, get some run out layups. I thought Cole figured out, he started using the rim against Brady Harr and got us some points there. Hit a couple threes which we needed. Obviously not pretty, but it does show us even if you’re down, you’re not playing well, you’re not making shots, you can still get out a win.”
Benny Waller led with 18 points. Brouwer and Tyler Wedeking each scored 15. With his 65th made three-pointer of the season, Wedeking tied the single-season program record for three-pointers, previously set by Aaron Thomas.
Hampton-Dumont-CAL Coach Matt Lokenvitz describes the closing minutes.
Harr led with 17 points, Horton scored 11 and Rieken added 10.
AP has closed its regular season. Hampton-Dumont-CAL will conclude the regular season Friday at #7 (3A) Clear Lake on 104.9 KLMJ, with pregame coverage at 7:15 p.m. and the tipoff at 7:30.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZ8bk8bzIyY?si=hKaZshumE0VDEik_&w=560&h=315]
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaiDRclxyXY?si=z1prptPhdsgS01EC&w=560&h=315]
