Libby defeats Eureka, falls to Whitefish on Saturday

The Loggers came out fast in the first quarter and never looked back, defeating Eureka 53-29 in last Thursday's game on the road.

In a 23-8 first quarter, Jim Mee scored nine of his 23 points, leading the Loggers to victory; Conner Benson and Zack Rowan contributed seven and six points respectively.

At home Saturday night, the Loggers were not able to hang on to their lead against Whitefish, losing 70-67.

“The kids played harder than they played all year,” said Libby coach Wally Winslow, “and we played a lot of new faces.”

The newer faces include sophomore Colton Cannon, freshman Kelly May and senior Brandon Puckett.

“They played more than they normally do,” said Winslow. “They really stepped up and did a good job.”

Winslow noted junior Joel Fuller played his best game ever, who led in scoring for Libby with 20 points along with senior Jim Mee.

Winslow added that senior Bryan Cooper did an outstanding job, who contributed 19 points.

“Those two - plus Jim Mee - took it upon their shoulders to try and carry the team,” said Winslow, adding their effort was outstanding.

Winslow said at this stage in the season, the team should start making the plays to win the game in the final seconds.

“I'm very disappointed we lost the game,” he admitted. “The game slipped away from us - we could have won it.”

The Loggers sent the Bulldogs to the freethrow line 18 times, who capitalized on them - especially late in the fourth quarter - to net 12 total.

This Saturday the Loggers play Columbia Falls, who defeated them by six points in their last match.