Cloud Takes Season Openers

​Girls, Boys teams post road wins over Panthers 

White Cloud 34 Hesperia 25

 The White Cloud Girls opened up their 2021 season with a trip to Hesperia battling a pesky Panther team and  emerging with a victory. 
Shaking off the rust of a long postponed season the teams struggled offensively and the first half ended in a 10-10 tie. The Indians inched ahead entering the final frame clutching a 2 point lead then took charge and held off their hosts in the 4th.
White Cloud was led by Carsyn Scarlavai with 13 points, 6 steals and 3 assists.  Naomi Thompson chipped in 9 points with 3 triples.  Alexis Strait added a tough 6 points while being hounded all night with tough defense from Hesperia.  Cassie Watson netted 5 points and led WC with 7 rebounds.  
Emme Tinkham paced the Panthers with 10 points and top numbers on the glass with Emily Bayle as each pulled down 9 boards. Bayle added 4 steals.
“ A low scoring, hard-fought game,” said Panther Coach Vince Grodus. “ Both teams struggled offensively.”

White Cloud: 59 Hesperia: 19
 
The Cloud Boys team made it a sweep as they ran away from the Panthers to secure a win in the opener for both teams.
Panther Coach Andrew Worcester: “Not how I expected to start our season off. The turnovers (35) hurt us bad. Once we got into our offense we got opportunities for shots but could not capitalize and score. Good job to Coach Jones and his team.  We know where we are as a team right now, so we will continue to work and get better.”
Cloud Coach Bob Jones: “Pretty good start to the season. Lots to clean up on both ends. So we’ll be looking to improve our play on Friday night.”
Taylor Bode led WC with a game high 13 points. Dexter Cox and Mason Ruether hit for 11 each, Sam Venema scored 7 and Alex Elder and Jared Watson added a half dozen each. Adam Bulk contributed to the win with some solid  rebounding.
Kile Pomeroy scored 7 to lead the hosts while River Montague grabbed a team high 8 boards.
 
White Cloud teams will host Morley Friday while Hesperia welcomes in Kent City.

Want to follow local basketball live? Look for an upcoming  N3 article on how to access games.