GARLAND - By Jessica Tanner - Jan. 11, 2020
After falling short in the state championship game last season, the Bear River boys’ basketball was ready for redemption. Unfortunately, it was not their night and they would fall, 84-50, to a tough Sky View team.
“I knew it was going to be a tough game,” said Coach Reggie Shaw. “The Bobcats came ready to win, but our kids did not respond. We came out like it was just another basketball game.”
The gym was packed with fans from both teams eager to see who would come out on top in the region opener. The Bears started off hot with a couple three pointers, but things quickly turned in favor of the Bobcats. They took a 27-13 lead in the first quarter and by halftime had extended that lead, 43-21.
“I felt we were prepared and ready coming into the game, but then it spiraled out of control,” said Coach Shaw. “We got a little selfish on both ends of the floor and our kids were not doing the things we had practiced. It was a frustrating experience from our side.”
Throughout the game Sky View maintained control. They made big plays and rained down threes. The Bears attempted to answer back, but not much went their way. Last year’s state champs took a commanding lead in the third, 70-35, allowing bench players from both teams to see minutes in the fourth.
Mark Huber led the Bears in scoring with 16. Ren Fonnesbeck was close behind with 13 points on the night, while Jace Jacobson contributed 7 and Logan Litchford added 6.
“No one wants to start like that, but luckily that was only game one of region and we get a bunch more. All you can do is come together and continue to learn and work. Our guys have shied away from contact and physicality, but we have to be tough going into the rest of region,” said Coach Shaw.
For pictures of the game visit our home page, www.BRVNEWS.com and click on Andy Marchant Photography's featured gallery.
The Bears will host Ridgeline on Wednesday, January 15, and then will travel to Mountain Crest on Friday, January 17. Both games kick off at 7 p.m. If you cannot make the trip, be sure to watch all the action on Bear River Live, www.brlivestream.com
