by Dylan Sanders

The Mustangs bounced back in a big way after suffering their first loss of the season with a 56-51 win against the Knoxville Panthers on the Dec. 16. The Mustangs were led in scoring by junior Andrew Van Ryswyk who had 16 points and 10 rebounds en route to his third double-double of the season.

Head coach Frank Lorensen said, “It is always tough to play back-to-back days, but I think our kids responded pretty well.  Also added to the mix was the fact that Knoxville has a 94 foot floor [high school gyms are usually 84 feet].  Having to play in overtime in back-to-back games is also really unusual, so it was even tougher physically for the kids than normal. I thought our kids gave a good effort against a good Knoxville team.”

Senior Jackson Thomas was the other Mustang who scored in double digits with 12 points. Senior Noah Lamphier scored eight points to go along with his six rebounds. Senior Dayton Boell and junior Reed Worth had five and four points, respectively.

Lorensen said, “Anytime you lose a game, it is always good to get back in the win column as quickly as possible.  Knoxville has a good team, and it was good to be able to pull out a close win.”
The Mustangs come back from Christmas break to play at North Polk High School against the Comets on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 7:30 p.m.