The Trojans ended the first half on a 12-2 run and took the lead 36-33 on a 3-point field goal by Jack Nielsen at the end of the half.  Nielsen had all 14 of his points in the first half, nailing 4 3’s.  The Trojans hit 45% (26-57) from the field and made 10-of-25 (40%) shots from beyond the arc.  They also dominated the boards, 38-16 and committed only 4 turnovers. Kaden Zenzen had a huge night, scoring 22 points on 10-of-15 shooting, and completing his double-double with 13 boards.  Adam Tonsfeldt finished with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists, Ryan Rustad added 8 points and four rebounds, and Tate Inninger contributed 7 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists.

“We had to dig ourselves out of a hole in this one,” said Barnesville Assistant Coach Tracy Hinsz.  “We took really good care of the ball and had confidence knocking down our shots.  Kaden was big inside for us.”

McHale Korf led Pelican Rapids with 19 points.  Jayden Rutherford and Liam Sytsma were also in double digits with 13 and 12 points, respectively.  The Vikings shot 50% (25-5) from the field.

“We got off to a great start up 17-4 but started giving up offensive rebounds which they were able to convert into second chance points and close the gap,” reported Pelican Rapids Head Coach John Gullingsrud. “They hit a three to go into halftime with the lead and momentum and extended that out in the second half. We were able to cut it to three with a couple minutes left but couldn’t get any closer.  It’s a tough way to finish the season especially for our senior group that has been our core for the last couple of seasons. Those six guys are fantastic young men who will be greatly missed by our basketball program.”

Pelican Rapids ends the season with a record of 9 wins and 9 losses.

Barnesville (11-8) will travel to Glyndon to face the top seed in the North half of the Section, DGF.  The Trojans and Rebels have split their season series with each team winning on the road.