HUMBOLDT — Humboldt High’s boys are clicking as the season nears its finish.
The Cubs took control early over visiting Leon-Bluestem Thursday, leading 19-8 after one quarter and 36-14 at the break. Another dominating third period allowed head coach David Taylor to rest his starters down the stretch in a 57-33 victory.
“I was extremely pleased with the energy we had,” Taylor said. He noted Humboldt hadn’t touched the basketball court since a win last Friday over Fredonia — snowy weather canceled school the first three days of the week — and was expecting a sloppy night on the hardwood.
It was, but only for the visitors.
Humboldt’s defensive pressure limited Bluestem’s scoring chances, with rebounds and turnovers leading to a slew of transition buckets for the Cubs.
“I didn’t even have to harp on the guys,” Taylor joked. “I may have harped on them a little. I think they get nervous when I don’t.”
Trey Sommer continued his late-season surge, pouring in 26 points on 11 of 15 shooting, while pulling in nine rebounds, dealing out three assists and swiping two steals.
“A lot of his scoring comes from guys getting the ball out to him in transition,” Taylor said.
Defensively, Taylor praised Gavin Page, “who was strong with his on-the-ball defense. Everybody played well.”
Drew Wilhite was 6 of 9 from the field en route to 14 points. He also had three assists and two steals. Levi McGowen chipped in with two assists and two steals.
The key for the Cubs (9-6) from here is to end a frenetic final week on a high note.
Humboldt has games Monday at home vs. Caney Valley, Tuesday at home vs. Cherryvale and Thursday at Yates Center.
“Hopefully, we get hot,” he said.
HUMBOLDT’S Lady Cubs also emerged victorious with a 50-41 win over Bluestem. Details were unavailable at press time.
LANCERS FALL SHORT
UNIONTOWN — Crest High’s basketball teams had a rough night on the road Thursday.
The Lady Lancers dropped a 61 decision to Uniontown, trailing 25-4 after one period and 34-12 at the break.
Lindsay Godderz led the Lady Lancers with 13 points and two steals. Anna Hermreck and Kayla Hermreck added four points each.
In boys action, Uniontown prevailed, 61-32. No further details were available.
