64th Annual Forreston Holiday Tournament: Semi-Final Game 1

Dakota and Byron tipped off for the second time in less than two weeks apart on Thursday evening in the first of two semi-final match ups. Other teams in the final four of the tournament consisted of Sterling Newman and Winnebago who bought in just as respectable records. The 4 teams were 24-2 combined which made for two competitive games. Let's breakdown the key contributors of tonight's first semi-final contest. Score breakdowns by quarter: Byron: 7, 19, 36, 49 Dakota: 11, 20, 27, 43    Athletic and experienced point with poised mobility on both ends. Defensively showcased quick lateral movement not allowing offense to get into much flow throughout first half. Was the main glue guy against opponent's best player. Came up with a couple take-a-ways throughout the game. In the fourth had a key steal and put back right away as well as a big knock down 3 to pull within 4 points with a minute to go. Overall possessed disciplined demeanor in a game that was characterized by physicality.     Takes on a lot of attention offensively as team's main facilitator and scorer. Defensively was active in the passing lane anticipating and getting his hands in the lane multiple times causing deflections. Dragged the defender out on the dribble to widen the floor and then make his move. Was successful on a couple combo move sequences to get to the cup and finish in traffic. Saw the floor well with a give and go in the ½ court setting and a half court pass threading the needle for another dime. Had a game high 20 and will try to lead team to their 4th straight tournament championship tomorrow.     Created some mis-match opportunities because of length. At the small school level is deemed position-less. At the college ranks can be utilized as a swing man or a level headed 3 depending what you need. Can knock it down from long distance or get to the rack in rhythm. Was fouled multiple times on drives to go to the stripe. Moves the ball cleanly on offense with awareness and vision. Comfortable making decisions on the perimeter as well as handling or bringing it down. A lot of action runs through him for a well established positive 20+ win team this year.     Will take the route of playing on turf next fall but an overall determined athlete who affects the game on the hardwood in an obvious impactful manner as well. Makes up for height and length in the paint with his tough physicality and speed. Strong frame that he utilizes to advantage in multiple facets whether it's screening, on the glass, or fighting for possession. Most impressed with the way he ran the floor throughout the entirety of the game. Communicated well defensively on screens in PNR actions for switches or stays. Overall a hardnosed competitor who will sacrifice and help team get in the winning department often.     A man in the middle that brings physicality and determination to the paint. Have to appreciate a bit of old school feel here. Posts up hard with solid feet and positioning fighting for location. Had him down for at least a handful of offensive rebounds. Cut hard off a BLOB play and to keep it high and score it quickly. Had another catch on the block to then successfully work with his back to the basket to convert. Causes disruption underneath with a strong frame and a toughness attitude. Will help team find a lot of success this season.

Dakota and Byron tipped off for the second time in less than two weeks apart on Thursday evening in the first of two semi-final match ups. Other teams in the final four of the tournament consisted of Sterling Newman and Winnebago who bought in just as respectable records. The 4 teams were 24-2 combined which made for two competitive games. Let's breakdown the key contributors of tonight's first semi-final contest.

Score breakdowns by quarter:
Byron: 7, 19, 36, 49
Dakota: 11, 20, 27, 43