The JV boys’ basketball team brought home another win as they defeated the Cedar Ridge Raiders 49-35 on Friday, Jan. 20. The two teams kept the score close in the first half, but starting in the third quarter the Warriors were able to gain and maintain a lead.

The Warriors started the first quarter with multiple two point shots and free throws. The boys were able to keep possession of the ball with rebounds from Mason Flood ‘19. By the end of the first quarter, the Warriors were up 13-8.

However, the Raiders offense pushed back and were able to gain points throughout the second quarter. The Warriors remained strong on defense and were able to steal the opposing team’s passes. These steals allowed for fast layups by Brandon Kothlow ‘18 and Ashton Theimer ‘19. Yet, the Raiders were able to lead by one going into halftime, 23-24.

“We can continue to work together as a team,” Thiemer said. “We can improve by starting off mentally strong in the first two quarters.”

Coming back from halftime, the boys gained a new confidence as Flood and Zach Shrull ‘19 gained points for the Warriors. The defense remained strong only allowing the Raiders to score six points in the third quarter. With a three-point shot by Karthik Shetty ‘19 the Warriors had a comfortable lead of 37-30 going into the fourth quarter.

Throughout the last quarter, good ball movement and successful plays allowed for the Warriors to continue gaining a lead. The Raiders tried to hold them on defense, but ultimately the Warriors were victorious as they won 49-35.

“Last night was a good win against Cedar Ridge. We moved the ball really well and our team defense was strong,” Thiemer said. “We really shut them down and were active about stealing the ball.”

The JV boys’ team will take on Lake Travis in their next home game on Monday, Jan. 23 at 6 p.m.. Go Wood.