Falcons, Cyclones Split Battles In Tilden On Monday

After ice caused a delay in a much-anticipated all-Antelope County showdown between Elkhorn Valley and Clearwater-Orchard, fans on both sides were the benefits of two exciting games on Monday.

The girls got the night started in a tight showdown. Elkhorn Valley jumped to the lead early with a 21-point first quarter, but their lead at halftime was only three points over the Cyclones. The Falcons were able to pull away in the second half, outscoring the Cyclones 27-16.

Hannah Ollendick led the Falcons on the night with 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting. Three other Falcons nearly hit double digits, with Amber Miller, Brianna Werner and Alyssa Rood all reaching nine points. Ollendick and Rood controlled the paint, pulling in seven and six rebounds, respectively. Miller dished out six assists for Elkhorn Valley.

For the Cyclones, Kinzly Macke was once again strong offensively. She dropped in 17 points on 67 percent shooting while pulling down nine rebounds and taking away five steals. Allee Snider added eight points and six rebounds and Allison Kerkman led the defense with six steals.

In the boys game, the Cyclones avenged their female classmates, taking down the Falcons 54-45. O-C held just a one-point lead at the break, but pulled away in the second half for the win.

Three Cyclones reached double figures in scoring, led by Liam Odell's 13 on 71 percent shooting, including nailing all three of his attempts from downtown. Travis Kerkman added 11 points and Ryan Wilhelm dropped in 10.

For the Falcons, Kalen Dittrich and Brayden Effle led the offensive attack with 18 and 12 points, respectively. Dittrich and Tucker Hecht each pulled down eight rebounds and Austin Miller dished out eight assists.