FIELD TWP— In a match-up that could herald the section title tilt later this season, the seventh-ranked Grizzlies edged Nashwauk-Keewatin in overtime to improve to 3-0 on the season. “Our three most experienced players led the way and gave us an opportunity to put the game into overtime and then come away with a win,” said North Woods Head Coach Will Kleppe.

The Spartans hit the court fast in the early-going and shot well to build an early lead. “We were behind early, battled back and exchanged the lead a few times the rest of the game,” said Kleppe.

Key shooting from sophomore guard TJ Chiabotti, who connected on five treys in the second half, helped lift the Grizzlies when they needed it most. Kleppe said key plays from post players Darius Goggleye, Trevor Morrison, and Levi Byram also made the difference. In the end, it was the Grizzlies on top, 86-83.

Chiabotti led all scorers with 31 points, while Goggleye poured in 26. Morrison posted 15 points, while Brendan Chiabotti added six and Jared Chiabotti had five.

“N-K is a section favorite with all their returning starters from last year so for us to get a win with some younger players rounding out our lineup was nice to see,” said Kleppe.

The Grizzlies had little trouble at South Ridge this past Thursday, as they tamed the Panthers, 85-48. Jared Chiabotti and Morrison each scored 25 points, while Goggleye and TJ Chiabotti both reached double digits. “Defense is the trademark of our team and we did a good job of limiting South Ridge’s opportunities even though they have excellent team height and good post play,” said Kleppe. “Jared’s defensive effort triggered a number of transition opportunities and Trevor runs the floor as good as any big man so they capitalized.”

The Grizzlies were set to host Ely on Friday, with tip-off at 7:15 p.m. They’ll travel to Esko on Monday to take on the Eskomos.