Basketball Recap: Jahiem Hamik and Brayden Lurz Secure Win for Winside

Winside lost to Newman Grove/St. Edward back in December of 2024, but they didn't allow them the same satisfaction on Tuesday. The Wildcats enjoyed a cozy 53-38 win over the Panthers. That 15 point margin sets a new team best for the Wildcats this season.

Winside was led to victory by Brayden Lurz and Jahiem Hamik. Lurz shot 75% from the field on his way to 13 points, while Hamik posted 11 points and four steals. Hamik is crushing it when it comes to steals: he's grabbed at least four every time he's taken the court this season. Another player making a difference was Tyler Paulsen, who had 11 points and eight boards.

Winside was working as a unit and finished the game with 11 assists. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their assist total in three consecutive matchups.

Newman Grove/St. Edward's defeat came despite a true team effort with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Parker Fitchner, who put up seven points and ten rebounds. Ryan Cumming was another key player, putting up 14 points.

Winside pushed their record up to 3-1 with the victory, which was their fourth straight at home dating back to last season. Those home wins came thanks in part to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they've averaged 55.8 points this season. As for Newman Grove/St. Edward, this is the second loss in a row for them and nudges their season record down to 1-5.

Looking ahead, Winside will be home for the holidays to greet Tri County Northeast at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. As for Newman Grove/St. Edward, they will head out to take on Burwell at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. The Panthers will be up against the Longhorns' rather soft defense (which has allowed 68 points per contest), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance.