Sisters Outlaws win two, lose one on the hardwood

The young Outlaws squad recorded a 49-41 win at home over Crook County on Friday, December 18, and a day later suffered a 61-32 loss at Central. Three days later Sisters earned a victory on the road. The Outlaws beat Burns in a final score of 57-45.

In Friday's game, Sisters outscored Crook County in both the first and second quarters and held a 23-16 lead at the half. It was a tight second half with the Outlaws only outscoring the Cowboys by one, but Sisters lead in the first half helped to secure the win.

"It was a fun game," said Coach Rand Runco. "Crook County was very disciplined in their slowdown offense, and it took a while to pull ahead. Our team defense, which is our foundation, held strong and we wore them down. We should have pulled away in the first half, but showed our inexperience and made too many mistakes, making it a closer game than it should have been."

Runco added, "I was pleased that each time that CC made a run in the second half we answered and finished strong. We have a lot to learn but are improving. All our teams won tonight."

Drew Harrison led the Outlaws with 15 points, including three threes. Harrison also pulled down eight rebounds and dished out six assists. John Erickson scored 12 points, Cory Holt contributed 10 points and Jalen Miller chipped in for nine points and six assists.

The team hit six three-pointers on the night and was 9/14 from the line.

A day later, the Outlaws suffered a devastating 61-32 loss to Central, last year's 4A state runner-up.

The Panthers outscored the Outlaws 24-7 in the second quarter and at the half held a commanding 35-12 lead. Central went on to easily win the contest.

"It was a very difficult game," said Runco. "After playing Crook County the night before, we did not get off the bus well. Our depth situation must improve. Our players were tired going into the second quarter, and Central exploded and hit everything and broke us down with their dribble drive offense. I was disappointed with our team defense, which has been our strength. I hope we see this team again. It was great for us to see this team early and realize where we must go to compete at this level."

The Outlaws bounced back and earned a 57-45 win at Burns on Tuesday, December 22. A total team effort was key to the win. Sisters led by 11 at the half and increased the lead to 22 in the fourth quarter which allowed the Outlaws to substitute early and reward some of their hardworking bench.

"Every player played unselfishly, and our team defense was outstanding," said Runco. "It was a nice win, and for the first time we pulled away and did not let them hang around. Everyone played well and our JV and freshmen also won."

Drew Harrison led the team with 15 points and six rebounds. John Erickson had 13 points, five rebounds and four assists and Jalen Miller scored nine points and contributed six assists. Rodney Warner pitched in for eight points and three rebounds.

The Outlaws are currently 4-4, and Runco is pleased with his new team.

"With Drew Harrison our only returner with full varsity playing experience, we are improving very fast. Our ability to play as a team is the crucial element for our team. We have no room for individual play," said Runco.

Runco also commented on several individuals and the upcoming season.

"Senior Drew Harrison, sophomore John Erickson, senior Rodney Warner and sophomore Jalen Miller carried our scoring load in the first eight games," stated Runco. "Cory Holt has been a real surprise with his great energy and tenacious defense. Jordan Hodges has also been coming on fast and has the ability to play great pressure defense and score in a variety of situations. It is going to be an exciting season."

Sisters will kick off league play at Marist on Tuesday, January 5.