Libby hoopers close at half, stumble down the stretch

A second-half shooting drought shifted a manageable deficit into a 47-31 loss Tuesday when the Libby Loggers (1-14) traveled to Bonners Ferry, Idaho.  

Libby trailed 26-21 at half, but managed only 10 points after the break. Senior guard Jared Winslow, one of the best shooters in Montana’s Class A, was held to an uncharacteristic eight points. Winslow and junior guard Collin Johnson tied for the team lead in scoring. Kyler Rice led all scorers with 15 points for Bonners Ferry. Rice also swiped four steals.

The loss in Bonners Ferry was the middle of a five-games-in-10-days stretch for the Logger basketball team. Libby met one of the area’s best freshmen, point guard Chase Bohne, Thursday when they traveled to Class B Eureka (8-8). The Loggers host Polson (3-12) at 7 p.m. Saturday. The Lady Loggers will tip at 4 p.m. Saturday.

While the season has been a tough one for the Loggers, several young players have earned playing time. Sophomore guard Jonny Cielak and freshman post Erik Lauer are players to keep an eye on.