Saints Fall to Tigers in 1AA Section Semifinals
The St. Charles Saints struggled from the field, as the Tigers slowed the game down to advance to the Section 1AA Final with a 50-38 victory.
The Saints, who are known for their ability to score, struggled from deep, and really couldn't force the issue in which we have seen them play all season. The Tigers did a great job of controlling the tempo, and really made it difficult for the Saints to score. They played some suffocating defense, as well.
The Saints were led by Keegan Maloney, who had a great game. He was attacking the rim, and defensively his hands were in passing lanes the entire game. It was a great performance for him, as he led all scorers with 16 points.
Lake City played some discipled basketball that made it difficult for the Saints to get out and run in transition. where they are at their best. The Tigers made it a half court game and they were able to hit their free-throws late to secure the victory.
The Saints jumped out to a 7-0 lead, but the Tigers were able to get back into the game, and eventually took a lead early in the first half. The Saints retook the lead, 20-17, but Mitch Marien, who led the Tigers hit a 3 for the Tigers to tie it up at 20. Maloney hit a free throw with 28 seconds left to give the Saints a 21-20 lead, but the Tigers were able to get a bucket right before the buzzer to give the Tigers a 22-21 lead at the break.
The Tigers led for the entire second half, and continued to be very deliberate with their shooting to ride out to the victory.
KFIL Subway Player of the Game (St. Charles) - Keegan Maloney
KFIL Subway Player of the Game (Lake City) - Marc Kjos
Kingsley Mercantile Game Ball - Kaden Vaughn (St. Charles)