Carlton Falls to MIB In Semifinals

Cade Pierson – NSO

Photos by: Marianne Pierson

The 23-6 Carlton Bulldogs met up with the 25-4 Mountain Iron-Buhl Rangers Tuesday night in Romano Gymnasium at UMD, in a game that would remain tightly contested until the late second-half.

The first half was close throughout, until the Bulldogs managed to compile a 10-point lead midway through. MIB Sophomore Joe Buffetta then ignited the comeback effort, hitting on back-to-back three’s for the Rangers.

As MIB missed the final shot of the first half, they took back a 6-point lead as both teams headed to the locker room.

The packed Romano gym got loud quick, as the Bulldogs started off on a speedy 6-0 run to begin the second half of play thanks to their efficient fast breaks.

Senior Bulldog guard Waylon Lekander did his best to keep Carlton in it, knocking down a couple three-pointers in the second half, paired with a handful of steals throughout the game.

MIB’s offense/defense would prove to be too much for the Dogs however, outscoring Carlton 40-21 in the second half.

Buffetta led MIB with a game-high 23 points, while Jaylon Holmes added 18 of his own.

Also scoring for the Rangers was Body Bissonette 6, Ryan Mogensen 11, Josh Isaacson 11, Justin Holmes 6.

Lekander led the Bulldogs in scoring with 18 points, hitting on 4 three’s.

Also scoring for Carlton was Tyler Ojibway 14 (4 three’s), Sam Macor 8, Jackson Mickle 5, Keijo Day 4, and Eric Soderstrom 4.

MIB will next play Northwoods in the title game Friday night, also being played at UMD, with a trip to the State Tournament on the line.