Cowboy basketball team reaches district final with win

The Clarion-Goldfield-Dows varsity boys basketball team was all too familiar with their district semifinal opponent in Clear Lake. The conference rivals met yet again this year in Garner last Thursday night, with the Cowboys earning a spot in the district title game following a 59-43 win over the Lions. The Cowboys played rated Garner-Hayfield/Ventura on Tuesday night for a chance to advance to the substate round, so look for that story in next week’s Monitor.

The Cowboys held a slim 28-26 advantage at the break, but then dominated their opponent throughout the second half in outscoring the Lions 31 points to 17 for the victory. Two players finished in double figures, as Sam Urness drained 17 points through the hoop with Zack Leist close behind at 13 points which included going 7 of 10 at the line. Marco Duran and Rhett Darland were close to doubles, scoring nine counters each. Will Weidemann finished with four points, Derek Conlon and Jacob O’Connor both three points each and Avery Harrington one point.

“This was the best game we’ve played all year,” stated head coach Brandon Lantzky. “Our defense was spectacular against a very talented offensive team. I was proud of our overall effort. Marco had a great night, as did Zack. Night in and night out, any of our players can step up and have a great game. This was a fun game to be a part of all-around.”