LEON — The Humboldt Cubs advanced to the next round of the Tri-Valley League Middle School Tournament after defeating Fredonia 32-24 Monday.
A slow start eventually resulted in a roaring success as the Cubs slowly picked up the pace while incrementally increasing their lead over the Yellowjackets.
This was a good win for us,” Humboldt coach Jeremy Weilert said. “Tate Thomas was very efficient tonight. Elijah Irby was great on the boards.”
Thomas got the Cubs rolling early with three close-range shots and a 3-pointer, but Humboldt did not capture the lead until late in the second quarter. Once they did, however, they did not let go as they went on a 9-3 run to end the first half ahead 14-11. As Irby asserted himself, pulling down a team-leading nine rebounds, he also posted a few easy baskets underneath to keep Humboldt ahead. The Cubs went on an 11-6 run to tend the third quarter ahead by three possessions 25-17 and would maintain their 8-point cushion through the final whistle.
Thomas finished the contest first in scoring with 12 points, followed by Monday’s rebounding leader, Irby, with six points. Waylon Johnson posted five points with two rebounds and a steal while Aaron Wille posted four points and four rebounds.
The Cubs face Caney Valley at 6 p.m. Thursday in the second round of the TVL Middle School Basketball Tournament.
