By Austin Driedger

 

Briercrest took a commanding lead of 28-16 in the first quarter, and continued to hold the pressure, defeating Olds College Broncos 101-76.

Olds College battled hard throughout the first half displaying a play of brilliance in the first quarter with an alley-oop dunk, to go along with their impressive three point shooting hitting six three point shots in the first half. Broncos play still could not outdo Briercrest as they dominated, leaning strongly on their speed and fast breaks to score the majority of their points finishing the half at 52-36.

Christian Sacoman was also on the court as a new addition to Briercrest Clippers in the second semester after red-shirting at Fort Lewis College in New Mexico. Sacoman had previously played one year at Briercrest in the 2010-11 season, and has come back to add more depth and skill to Briercrest’s men’s team. Sacoman made his return to Briercrest with three points, one assist and three rebounds.

The second half started with a hard-working defensive effort from James Wohlgeshaffen blocking a fast break attempt from a Broncos player. Although, the Broncos responded to the block by hitting four three-point shots in a row as well as other quick points to swiftly tie the score at a nerve wracking 54-54 within the first four minutes of play in the third quarter.

The quarter continued and Briercrest men did not give up their high pressure style of play. Lucas Mannes helped Briercrest get their tempo up again scoring five points in the quarter with Briercrest remaining on top holding the lead 70-60.

In the fourth quarter Briercrest made sure to bring back their composure and poise, tightening up their defense which provided increased opportunities on the offensive side of the court. The team played as whole again, and the game finished with a score of 101-76 for Briercrest. 

Coach Adrian was pleased with his team’s effort.

“Earning our 10^th win of the season against a tenacious young team from Olds was a hard fought affair, but they couldn’t answer our relentless pace and great defense,” Adrian said. “We were led by game most outstanding player Kendell Boese who finished with 28 points, four assists, and two rebounds in a gutsy performance nursing a sore back.  Gradyn Childerhose dominated the middle with 20 points, 13 rebounds, two assists, two blocks and four steals – a busy night for our big man.  Lucas Mannes came off the bench with 19 points, two assists, and three steals.  Matt Myers was our vocal leader tonight and finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.  James Wohlgeschaffen had a solid 10 points, and seven rebounds. Caleb Klassen pushed the pace all night and had eight assists, and six steals. It was a great effort by all and tomorrow we’re going to work on protecting the ball.”

Player of the Game for Olds College was Sam Kirkness with 24 points, two rebounds and one steal, Player of the game for Briercrest was Kendell Boese with a game high 28 points, two rebounds, four assists and one steal.

Game notes: Briercrest held the edge in every facet of the game except blocks and three point shots made, where Olds led five to three and 13 to 10. Briercrest defeated Olds in rebounds 48 to 40 (18 to 12 on the offensive boards and 30 to 28 on defense), assists 25-11, and steals 22 to 16.

Briercrest were also led by Gradyn Childerhose’s game high 13 rebounds (six of which were offensive), and Caleb Klassen’s game high seven assists and six steals.

If you can't make it to the gym for tomorrow's 3:00 pm start be sure to follow online at SportsCanada.tv or like Briercrest Basketball on Facebook.