Lions remain perfect with 82-63 win

The Clear Lake boys basketball team moved to 7-0 overall and in the North Central Conference with an 82-63 victory over Algona Friday, Jan. 3.

“We got off to a slow start in the first quarter, but after that, I thought we did a

 better job of executing on both ends of the floor,” said Coach Kevin Kahler.

Algona was out front, 19-15, after the first quarter of play, but from there on the Lions were in control.  They outscored the Bulldogs, 20-10 in the second quarter to hold a 35-29 halftime lead.  

The Lions offense kept gaining momentum in the third.  Clear Lake scored 25 in the third to take a 60-44 advantage into the final quarter.

“Defensively, our zone gave them some problems, and offensively, we took better shots over the last three quarters,” added Coach Kahler.

Junior Matt Stephany had a big night for the Lions with 28 points, seven rebounds and two blocked shots.  Davis Dieken and Spencer Davidson were also in double figures with 17 and 13 points respectively.  Brock Adams was also effective, with eight points, five assists, four steals and three rebounds.  Chase Lester scored six and finished with four rebounds.

Pete Swenson came off the bench and provided strong defense with seven rebounds and a steal.  He dished out four assists and scored two points.  Devin Uhlenhopp, Jack Abbas, Tanner Storbeck and JJ Theobald also came off the bench to score two points for the Lions.

Clear Lake was scheduled to travel to Clarion Tuesday, Jan. 7, and host St. Edmond on Thursday, Jan. 9.  St. Ed’s is also 7-0 in the NCC.  On Saturday, Jan. 11, the Lions will play a non-conference game at Forest City.