TUMWATER— In a thrilling matchup, the Black Hills Wolves overcame the W.F. West Bearcats with a score of 62-55, marking an important victory for the Wolves. This game was particularly significant as it was the first meeting between the teams since W.F. West eliminated Black Hills from the 2A District 4 Tournament nearly a year ago.
Following that defeat, Black Hills coach Jeff Gallagher had taken measures to keep the memory of that loss fresh in the minds of his players by displaying the final score around their facilities. However, the Wolves were able to shake off those memories on Friday night, pulling away in the second half to secure the win.
“It was really nice to kind of get back and get that win,” Gallagher stated, clearly satisfied with his team”s performance. “I am very happy to take those signs down off of everything.”
The game was competitive throughout the opening three quarters, with neither team able to establish a definitive lead. However, after a series of three-pointers from Blake Hampton, W.F. West managed to take a six-point lead early in the second half.
Responding swiftly, the Wolves launched a 10-0 run led by Quinton Morrill, who scored seven consecutive points, including a three-pointer that put Black Hills back in the lead. Another three from Kendall Roberson capped this run, allowing the Wolves to extend their advantage to nine points, prompting a timeout from W.F. West.
Black Hills dominated the third quarter, outscoring the Bearcats 16-1 during a crucial stretch. Coach Chris White of W.F. West noted, “They hit a couple of big shots,” acknowledging the Wolves” momentum shift.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, W.F. West fought hard to stay competitive and managed to cut the deficit to just two points with 2:51 remaining. However, they struggled to score in the closing minutes, allowing Black Hills to secure the victory by maintaining a five-point lead.
Morrill led all scorers with 22 points, while his brother, Talon Morrill, contributed 11 points to the team”s success. Gallagher praised the duo, calling them “the best backcourt in our conference” and commending their growth throughout their high school careers.
Despite facing foul trouble, James Morgan still managed to score 17 points, showcasing his talent with a strong performance in both the first and final quarters. Gallagher remarked on Morgan”s ability to rise to the occasion, acknowledging him as a key player in their conference.
Even in defeat, Coach White expressed pride in his team”s effort, especially in light of losing teammate Cody Schwarz to an injury just days prior. “We battled our butts off,” White said, emphasizing his team”s grit and determination. “I felt good about our effort and our growth out of our guys.”
For W.F. West, Hayden Rooney scored 16 points, while Hampton added 14 points with four three-pointers. The Bearcats” next challenge will be to break a five-game losing streak when they face off against Aberdeen on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Black Hills will aim for its fifth consecutive win against Tumwater, after splitting their matchups last season.
“We”ll enjoy this one tonight,” Gallagher concluded, “And we”ll get back to work on Sunday.”
