Basketball Recap: Smith Center Comes Up Short

Smith Center was not able to break out of their rough patch on Friday as the team picked up their third straight loss. They were a single point away from ending the streak, but they lost a 47-46 heartbreaker at the hands of the Thomas More Prep-Marian Monarchs. The Redmen were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Monarchs apparently hadn't forgotten their defeat the last time these teams played back in February of 2024.

Kayln Ifland

Steals

12/06/24 vs Plainville	7
02/07/25 vs Thomas More Prep-Marian	6
01/21/25 @ Ellis	6
01/24/25 @ Hoxie	4
01/28/25 vs Hill City	3
+ 9 more games

Smith Center's loss came despite a true team effort with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Kayln Ifland, who went 6 of 11 en route to 15 points along with six steals and five boards. Smith Center is 2-1 when Ifland posts five or more steals, but 3-9 otherwise. Another player making a difference was Leah Mckelvey, who went 6 for 13 to rack up 13 points and eight rebounds.

Even though they lost, Smith Center smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 13 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least eight offensive boards in four consecutive contests.

Smith Center's defeat dropped their record down to 5-10. As for Thomas More Prep-Marian, they have been performing incredibly well recently as they've won six of their last seven games, which provided a massive bump to their 10-6 record this season.

Smith Center wasted no time getting back out on the court and has already played their next match, a 57-32 loss against Superior on the 10th. As for Thomas More Prep-Marian, they will venture away from home to square off against Russell at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Each of these teams will be fighting to keep a win streak alive as Russell comes in on four and Thomas More Prep-Marian on three.