The North Union Warriors boys basketball team has successfully clinched the District 1 championship with a hard-fought 54-51 triumph over the St. Edmond Gaels, thereby securing their position in the state-qualifier game. The game, which took place in Pocahontas, Iowa, initially saw the Warriors falling behind, only to rally and emerge victorious thanks to their resilience and skill.
In the early stages of the game, the Warriors found themselves trailing 8-3, with senior guard Kyan Jones being sidelined due to swift fouls. However, his absence provided an opportunity for senior guard Preston Guerdet to shine, scoring nine points in the first quarter and concluding the evening with a crucial 24 points and a 3-pointer.
Coach Alex Fisher expressed satisfaction in the performance of his seniors, underscoring the team’s ability to maintain composure and determination throughout the game. Warrior post player Kody Irmiter contributed to the victory with 12 points and seven boards, while Jones returned to the game to score six points and deliver eight assists.
The Gaels presented a formidable challenge, with sophomore forward Hunter Horn notching 12 points and securing eight boards, and sophomore guard Jakob Koopman leading the scoring with 17 points and six boards. Despite their valiant efforts, the Warriors managed to maintain their lead and capture the district championship.
Following this triumph, North Union (21-3) is poised to face South O’Brien (21-3) in Spencer, with the opportunity to qualify for the state tournament. The forthcoming game is anticipated to be an enthralling contest as both teams vie for a place in the state finals.
The performance of the North Union Warriors in clinching the district championship is a reflection of their prowess and determination on the court. As they prepare for the state-qualifier game, enthusiasts eagerly await another captivating display of basketball prowess from this talented team.