Boys: Oak Grove 88, Valley City 61
Oak Grove overwhelmed Valley City in the first half behind a dominant shooting performance from Ryder Soper and Karter Koenig, who each scored 19 points before the break. The Grovers’ control was evident early, as they raced out to a 29-12 lead after the first quarter. Valley City showed improvement in the second frame, but Oak Grove still carried a commanding 50-25 advantage into halftime.
Valley City outscored Oak Grove in the third quarter, fueled by Finn Dockter, who knocked down three 3-pointers in the period. However, the Hi-Liners were unable to capitalize on the Grovers’ slower start after halftime, continuing to surrender too many open looks. Oak Grove took full advantage, particularly Zachary Winter, who erupted for 16 points off the bench in the second half.
Valley City trimmed the deficit to 13 points late in the third, but a strong second-half combination from Soper and Winter prevented the Hi-Liners from getting any closer. Oak Grove reasserted control in the fourth and rolled to the 88-61 win.
Girls: Valley City 61, Oak Grove 43
Despite not playing its sharpest game, Valley City took control in the second half and cruised to a comfortable win over Oak Grove.
The Hi-Liners got off to another fast start, with Katie Burchill scoring seven first-quarter points. Oak Grove responded with timely 3-pointers from Harper Brunsvold and Sophia Geiger to cut the deficit, as Valley City led 17-11 after one. The second quarter saw the Hi-Liners push the lead into double figures behind a strong stretch from Dacota Potratz, but the Grovers closed the half on an 8-2 run over the final three minutes to pull within two at 29-27.
The halftime break proved to be the reset the defending state champions needed. Burchill led the charge with eight third-quarter points, while Maddy Frieze connected on a pair of 3-pointers as Valley City outscored Oak Grove 15-6 in the frame.
Burchill continued to dominate in the fourth, finishing with a game-high 24 points as the Hi-Liners finally put the Grovers away to secure the 61-43 victory.
The Valley City girls return to action Friday against the Thompson Tommies at 7:30 p.m. in Devils Lake. The game will be broadcast on 1490 AM/96.3 FM KOVC and online at NewsDakota.com.