Vikings fall to Bison in District action

The Ventura boys’ season came to an end at Buffalo Center on Thursday, Feb. 16, when they fell to number nine ranked North Iowa in the second round of Class 1A District basketball action.
    “Our guys came out probably the best we’ve seen them play all season, which is great for the last game of the year,” said Coach Chad Brown.

    In front of a large home crowd, North Iowa came out ready to play and jumped to an early 17-7 first quarter lead.  The Vikings didn’t just roll over, however, and they went on a scoring spree of their own in the second quarter and brought the score to within five, 19-14.  The Bison ended the second quarter on a high note, knocking down some big shots to end the half, 26-16.
    “It was very encouraging for us as coaches to see the guys really dig in on defense, and they had great patience on offense,” said Brown.
    North Iowa returned from the break and outscored the Vikings 9-2 to open the third quarter.  Ventura fell to the Cornbelt Conference champions, 53-30.
    “The size of the North Iowa players was tough on us.  It was hard to get a hand in their face on defense and it caused problems offensively,” said Brown.  “Joel Watson was playing great defense with his hands up and right on (Kory) Hobbs and he just shot over him.  There was nothing else he could have done.”
    Brown praised the play of his three seniors, Ryan Schmitz, Watson and James Stephenson.  Defensively, he said Schmitz was all over the place and had no turnovers.  Stephenson was recognized for his hustle, defense and big boosts on offense.  Coach praised Watson for his- Read More Via e-Edition