Outlaws cap season with victories

The Outlaw boys basketball team recorded its third consecutive win at home on Tuesday, February 14, with a decisive 72-59 victory over the No. 10-ranked Stayton Eagles.

It took a while for the Outlaws to get into a rhythm at the start of the first period, but they adjusted their game and were down by only two, 15-13, at the end of the first quarter.

Sisters’ defense really picked up in the second quarter and Stayton’s defense started to wear down. The Outlaws outscored the Eagles 22-12 in the second quarter and at the half held a 37-25 lead.

The Outlaws continued to play a fast-paced second half and outscored the Eagles 25-18 in the fourth quarter.

“They caught us early in the fourth quarter and cut the lead to three with about four minutes to go in the game,” said Coach Rand Runco. “We clamped down and stepped it up.

“Jeff (Fitter) did outstanding and was just excellent at point guard,” said Runco. “His intensity and decision-making was fantastic. Our defense created a frantic pace they (Eagles) weren’t used to.”

Three players finished in double digits for the Outlaws.

Fitter had 19 points and Guy Mount finished with 18 points and five steals. Carter Davenport contributed 15 points.

Brian Knotts added eight points and eight rebounds.

Sisters forced Stayton into 29 turnovers for the night.

“The win was an incredible team effort,” said Runco.

Jeff Fitter said, “I’m really proud of the way we came out and played. We started slow at first, but we really battled and our pressure took a toll on them. Then, we hit a couple of shots and caught fire and everything fell into place.”

Fitter told The Nugget he thinks the Outlaws’ playoff chances are good.

“If we keep playing the way we are I don’t think anybody can touch us,” said Fitter.

Three days later the Outlaws traveled to Cascade for their final league game of the season and walked away with an 87-77 victory.

The Outlaws played the same style of game that has been successful for them the past two weeks, fast-paced and intense.

Sisters held a 50-40 lead at the half. In the second half Cascade managed to cut the Outlaw lead to five with about four minutes remaining in the game, but the Outlaws held on for the win.

Sisters forced the Cougars into 24 turnovers.

The Outlaws were very hot from the field and set a school record of 20 three-point shots that came from eight different players.

Carter Davenport led the offense with 19 points and Jeff Fitter added 15. Chris Ashley had five assists and five offensive boards and Brian Knotts finished with six offensive rebounds.

“We really hurt them on the boards,” said Runco. “It was a wild game and a great win.”

Sisters wrapped up league play at 7-3 and 11-10 overall.