The Clear Lake boys started the conference season with a 79-38 road win Tuesday, Dec. 13, at Clarion. The victory moved the Lions’ record to 4-0 heading into a home game against Algona Tuesday, Dec. 20. The team is also slated to host Fort Dodge tonight (Thursday, Dec. 22), as their final game before the break.
“I thought the guys came out with good energy and focus on the task at hand,” said Lions Coach Jeremey Ainley. “We jumped out to an early lead and continued to get easy baskets from our press.”
The Lions rushed out to a 15-8 first quarter lead and went to the locker room at halftime ahead, 47-21.
Coach Ainley was able to clear his bench throughout the second half to give everyone quality playing time. Ten players contributed to the scoring, led by Titan Schmitt and Travaughn Luyobya with 22 and 21-points respectively.
Gavin Anderson came off the bench to score nine-points, followed by Cael Stephany and Thomas Meyer with five apiece. Brandon Kuhlmeier and LJ Bryant each put in four points and Ben Loge, Trevor Theobald and Dylan Litzel had three points apiece.
“I was happy with total team effort from start to finish,” said Ainley. “Titan had a nice game — shot it well and played a great defensive game on their leading scorer. Travaughn had a nice all-around game and was good to see guys like Gavin and Ben hit some outside shots.”
Loge and Anderson each pulled down five rebounds to lead the team. Anderson and Luyobya also had four steals.
“I am happy with the start and now we have to continue going into Christmas break with a couple big games,” added Ainley.
