Basketball Recap: Newman Grove/St. Edward Triumphs

Newman Grove/St. Edward had lost three straight headed into Tuesday's game, but Anthony Reader didn't let it get to four. The Newman Grove/St. Edward Panthers strolled past the Winside Wildcats with points to spare on Tuesday, taking the game 53-36 thanks in part to Reader, who posted 21 points along with six boards and six steals. With that strong performance, he is now averaging an impressive 2.8 steals per game.

Marcos Paez was another key player, putting up ten points along with six steals and five boards. Paez is crushing it when it comes to steals: he's grabbed at least two every time he's taken the court this season.

Winside's loss came despite strong showings from Caleb Offner and Jahiem Hamik. Offner went 6 of 10 on his way to 12 points and seven blocks, while Hamik almost dropped a double-double on 11 points and nine steals. Those seven blocks gave Offner a new career-high.

Newman Grove/St. Edward's first win this season bumped their record up to 1-3. As for Winside, they are on a four-game losing streak (dating back to last season) that has dropped them down to 0-3.

Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. A feisty cat fight will be fought when the Newman Grove/St. Edward Panthers take on the Palmer Tigers at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. Winside and Tri County Northeast will compete for holiday cheer at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.