by Rory Van Gorp

The PCM boys’ basketball team took the court Jan. 16 to play against the Gilbert Tigers. After the girls’ close game, the court was tense. The pressure was on for the boys’ team.

PCM was off to a great start in the first quarter, scoring 23 points while Gilbert only scored 16. In the second quarter PCM was losing steam, scoring two less points than Gilbert, ending the half at 35-30, PCM’s lead.

In the second half Gilbert proved itself a threat when they pulled ahead 55-50 at the end of the third quarter. However, it was in the fourth and final quarter where PCM showed its superiority. PCM put up the most points in any quarter at 27, while Gilbert couldn’t keep up, scoring only 17 points.

PCM took the victory in the last quarter 77-72.

“We can definitely improve on defense. Our defense wasn’t where it needed to be, but with a little practice and some rest, I think we can play defense much better,” senior Elijah Sperfslage said.

The boys’ next game is  Jan. 25 at 7:30 p.m. at PCM High School against South Tama.