The much anticipated class 3A showdown between Dubuque Wahlert and Sioux City Heelan turned out to be a mismatch. Wahlert outscored Heelan 22-7 in the second quarter and roared away for a 64-40 victory. Eric May who led all scorers 19 points and says everything seemed to fall in the second quarter for the Golden Eagles. He says they were definitely in a flow and some shots went down that don’t normally fall.
It was a disappointing finish to the season for Heelan which shot only 26 percent for the game, including only three-of-18 from three point range. Heelan coach Tom Betz says it’s tough and hurts to lose, but he says he told his team they are winners with good character.
Class 3A top ranked Forest City grabbed control in the second quarter against Fairfield and never let go. The Indians won the battle on the boards 42-22 and cruised to a 71-45 win. Coach Dan Rosaker says they’re happy to be moving on with the win.
Adel ADM standout Troy Ticknor scored 14 of his game high 19 points after halftime as the Tigers edged West Delaware 68-60 in overtime in a class 3A opening round game. Ticknor says you’ve got to survive and get to the next round and he says he was able to get to the free throw line and got in a rhythm, in what he called a tough game. Ticknor had seven points in the overtime including a three pointer that gave the Tigers a five point lead with a minute-17 remaining.
Fort Dodge St. Edmond owned the fourth quarter and advanced into the class 2A semifinals. Tied with Tri-Center of Neola 34 all at the end of three the Gaels opened the final quarter with a quick 7-2 run enroute to a 54-44 win. Solon wasted no time in taking control against Battle Creek-Ida Grove. The Spartans raced out to a 13 point halftime lead and cruised to a 68-51 victory in a class 2A quarterfinal.