Shooting Dooms Cyclone Girls, Boys In Holiday Tourney Losses

The Lady Cyclones five-game winning streak came to an abrupt halt Wednesday night in their own holiday tournament.

Ewing came to town on a mission to take down Clearwater-Orchard and did just that in a 42-35 win. The Cyclones struggled from the floor, shooting just 26 percent from the game. Through three quarters, they were only able to muster up 20 points. They made their attempt at a comeback in the fourth quarter with 15 points, but unfortunately it was too late for the Cyclones.

Kinzly Macke once again posted a strong game, scoring 13 points and adding eight rebounds, three assists and three steals. Kylie Thiele added 10 points and provided strong defense, particularly in the fourth quarter. She pulled in five steals and looked to be willing the Cyclones back into the game before picking up her fifth foul.

The Cyclones now play Chambers/Wheeler Central on Thursday at 3 p.m. for third place.

In the boys bracket later in the night, it was a similar story as the Cyclones shot just 27 percent from the floor. They were still able to keep the game tight throughout, including holding a 42-41 lead with just under two minutes remaining. However, Ewing was able to hit a couple of crucial late shots while Clearwater-Orchard missed a few late free throws to give Ewing the 48-44 win.

Blake Hoke and Liam Odell finished the night with 12 and 11 points, respectively to lead all Cyclone scorers. Travis Kerkman was fantastic while cleaning up in the paint, racking up a season-high 21 rebounds, including seven on the offensive end. He also added seven points, despite shooting just 20 percent on the night.

The loss drops the Cyclones into the third place game against Elkhorn Valley at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday.