BIGFORK—The long bus ride to Bigfork didn’t slow the Timberwolves here on Tuesday night as they pummeled the Huskies 72-43 to improve their season record to 7-5. While Ely had built an 11-point lead by the break, they broke the game open in the second half. “We played really well on both ends of the floor,” said Ely Head Coach Tom McDonald.
Senior guard Joey Bianco had a big night for Ely, racking up 27 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. Senior guard Harry Simons, who broke his hand in the first game of the season, was finally back in action for Ely and he made a difference, with 13 points and strong defensive play. Senior Mason Davis added 12 points for the Wolves, while eighth-grade guard Jack Davies added nine points.
Turnovers proved critical for the Wolves on home hardwood last Friday, as they slipped 65-58 to Nashwauk-Keewatin in a hard-fought contest where both teams held the lead at times.
“We opened up a nine-point lead in the second half but it soon disappeared as we couldn’t handle their half-court trap, which led to many turnovers from us and fast break layups for them,” said McDonald. “I thought we competed well throughout the night, but just couldn’t get it done when we needed it,” said McDonald.
Bianco led the way for Ely, pouring in 22 points and grabbing 13 rebounds for a double-double. Davis added 19, while Davies had a big night, with 15 points. Junior Erron Anderson added nine points and grabbed eight boards to round out the stats for the Wolves.
The Wolves are currently scheduled to face Mt. Iron-Buhl on Friday and will host Duluth-Marshall on Saturday and Wrenshall on Tuesday. Be aware that COVID-19 outbreaks have led to the cancellation of many sporting events in recent days, so readers are advised to check with the school to confirm that games will be played.