Broncos win Area Championship

Defense was the name of the game in the Broncos’ Area matchup with Farwell last Friday night.  The Broncos

grabbed a 46-36 win over the Steers at Tascosa High School and earned the right to continue their post-season play.

The Broncos took control of the game early on and held a five-point lead after one.  But the Steers made up a little ground by halftime to get within three. Clarendon’s defense stayed solid, however, and they were able to stand their ground.  The Broncos’ turned up their defensive heat in the second half of play and were able to shut down the Steers.  A huge fourth quarter for the maroon and white gave them the 12-point win.   Marshal Johnson was solid once again and finished with a double-double.  The senior post made good on 18 points and 14 rebounds.

“We did a great job of playing defense and getting offensive rebounds,” head coach Brandt Lockhart said.  “The kids did a great job of executing our defensive game plan.”

Colt Wood also finished in double figures with 11, which included two three-pointers and five for six from the free throw line.  He also had one deflection.  Chance Lockhart had one three-pointer and finished with seven points.  Bryce Grahn put in five points and added 11 rebounds, four assists, one deflection, and three steals and Bear Smith had three points with three assists.  Keandre Cortez had two points in the game.

Earlier that week, the Broncos stopped Vega in the Bi-District round with a 56-48 win.  The Broncos began the game slowly as cold shooting plagued them through the first half of play.  They found their rhythm in the second half and were able to out play their opponent after tying the game at 40 all one minute into the third period.  From there, the Broncos were able to do what they do best; play solid defense to get the win.  They were able to handle Vega’s 6’8” post player with great defense.  “We did a good job playing defense, especially in the fourth quarter” Lockhart said.  “We were able to get stops in the fourth quarter and turn them into easy baskets.”

Johnson and Grahn led the scoring with 12 each and Wood followed closely with 11.  Johnson also grabbed seven rebounds and Grahn had six rebounds, three assists, and six steals.  Wood had three deflections in the game.  Smith put in nine points with six rebounds, four steals, and two points, while Lockhart had six points with six rebounds and three assists.  Damarjae Cortez had two points and Jacob Jeffers finished with two.