BEAR RIVER HIGH – By Jessica Tanner – Feb. 15, 2020
After claiming a big win over Logan High on Wednesday, Feb. 12, the Bear River boys’ basketball team had a lot of momentum headed into their game against Green Canyon on Friday, Feb. 14.
At halftime it looked like Bear River was going to get some redemption over the Wolves, but a rough second half caused the Bears to lose in the end in a tough Region 11 loss.
Bear River’s overall record is 13-9 headed into the playoffs next week. The RPI rankings will be released on Saturday, Feb. 15, but it’s likely the Bears will have a bye in the first round on Tuesday, Feb. 18, and would play on Friday, Feb. 21.
Last Wednesday, the Bears hosted Logan High on senior night and while honoring those graduating seniors, they also claimed a victory 62-53.
In the first quarter the Bears trailed 9-7. At halftime they were tied at 18 and both teams found their stride in the third quarter, but the Bears outscored the Grizzlies 26-21.
The Grizzlies were not far behind most of the fourth quarter and even took back the lead with just over four minutes left, but the Bears did not let them hold it for long and they sealed the win, 62-53.
Coach Ryan Sorensen said, “Down the stretch we were aggressive. We had them by a few points and they had to scramble a bit. We made the right plays and were mental tough.”
Leading the way for the Bears in scoring was Logan Litchford, who made 20 points on the night and Jace Jacobson added 19. The pair had a great night and both were 100% from the free throw line.
“We knew Logan would be big tonight,” said Sorensen. “He is a match up problem for them with his size—he is thick and strong and we said get on the block and go to work. I was really happy for him.”
“Jace was awesome and got Jadin Penigar in foul trouble, which changed the complexion of the game. I love when he is aggressive and goes to the basket. We all know he can knock down this corner three, but when he is aggressive, getting in the lane and making layups we are a lot better team because of that,” he added.
On Valentine’s Day the Bears headed to Green Canyon. In the first quarter Bear River came out on fire and outscored the Wolves 22-14. Although the Bears were not as much of a powerhouse in the second quarter they still maintained the lead 30-23.
“In the first half I was real pleased,” said Sorensen. “Defensively we were really good, but throughout the game we were not great offensively. It was a really good first half, but that is why there is four quarters, you have to show up in the second half and do the things you’ve been taught.”
After halftime the Bears had a bit of a slump and only scored six points compared to Green Canyon’s 15. The Wolves took the lead 38-36.
“In the third quarter Logan’s foul trouble obviously hurt us,” said Sorensen. “We were just foolish offensively and some of that is my fault. Our help side was not there and people were not rotating and doing what we work on every day in practice, but that is a good Green Canyon team.”
The Bears battled throughout the fourth quarter, but were outscored again and fell, 55-49.
Regardless of when the Bears play Sorensen said they will bounce back from this loss.
“We still get to play another game and the kids are excited and will be ready to go,” Sorensen added.
Bear River Live will follow the teams as they head into playoffs so be sure to watch for coverage on those games at www.brlivestream.com/live.