The Road to State: Ketchum vs Dale
Ketchum and Dale met in a packed arena in Catoosa to take face off for a spot in the Area Consolation semi-finals. Dale started the game a lot faster than Ketchum did. Ketchum struggled to find their shot until late in the first half. The game was close throughout but Ketchum did not capture the lead until the fourth quarter. The Warriors showed their experience as they never fretted and stayed composed. They fought when their shots were not falling and all the calls were going the way of Dale. They did not get frustrated. They just stayed their course and played with intensity. Ketchum’s season is still alive as they knock off a talented Dale team 60-53.
The Effort
The amount of effort shown by both schools was unbelievable. You could tell it was win or go home as the game was played on a knife’s edge. The effort never slipped as both teams played with intensity and heart through the 24 minutes. Even though Dale goes home tonight, the players can leave knowing they left it on the court. Playoff basketball often brings out the best in teams.
Hunter Chandler 2019 Ketchum Guard
Chandler was the cool hands for Ketchum tonight. He played a good game for the warriors and was an impact in all aspects of the game. On the defensive end of the court he was affecting shots and forcing turnovers. On the offensive end, Chandler was driving hard to the basket and finishing at the rim. He struggled with his shot from range tonight, but shot it with confidence. He never hung his head after a miss. Chandler finished the game with a joint game-high of 16 points. Chandler is pivotal to this Ketchum team if they want to advance to the state tournament.
Miles Monical 2019 Ketchum Wing
Monical was dominant big man in the game. Monical had multiple blocks throughout the game and was a mismatch on the offensive end. He was hard to guard for Dale because of his ability on the ball and his size. He could bang down low but was comfortable with the ball in his hands leading the break. Monical was also a beast on the boards, showing strength and athleticism. He skied for the boards and had a knack for winning the 50/50 balls. Monical finished the game with 14 points on the night.
Dallen Forsythe 2021 Dale Guard
Forsythe is just a freshman but you could not tell that by the way he plays and the confidence he shows. Forsythe was the best player on the court tonight for the Pirates and showed wisdom beyond his years. He was comfortable running the point and when Dale needed him the most is when he shined the brightest. He was finishing shots late in the game and kept Dale in the game late in the fourth quarter. Forsythe will be a fun player to watch over the next three years for Dale. He finished the game with a joint game-high 16 points.