Injuries to two of their leading performers did little to slow Iola Middle School’s eighth-grade A team Monday night. IN B TEAM action, Iola’s eighth-graders won 20-18 on Cokely’s basket with two seconds left.
The Ponies lost the services of both Matt Komma and Ethan Holloway with ankle injuries against visiting Independence.
“But these kids really stepped it up in their absence,” IMS head coach Marty Taylor said.
Iola busted open a close game with a 10-0 run in the third quarter, part of a larger 14-1 spurt to end the game in a 25-10 victory.
Taylor said several IMS players warranted praise.
Evan Sigg led the way with 12 points and eight rebounds, followed by Isaac Vink with nine points. Cale Barnhart scored three and Holloway one. Nick Vaughn had six rebounds, followed by Miller with five.
“Evan was aggressive and tough tonight,” Taylor said. “Isaac did a great job of seeing the floor and being a leader. Cale learned he was going to start about 30 seconds before the game, and had his best game of the year. Matt Miller, Zach Cokely and Caden Knavel were great off the bench.”
The seventh-grade A team also rolled to a 36-20 win.
The Ponies built a six-point lead by halftime and continued to extend it through the second half. Iola ended the game on a 7-0 run.
“A very good team win,” Taylor said.
Jeremy Waldman led a balanced scoring attack with nine points. Tayton Driskel and Kane Rogers both had eight points with 10 and eight rebounds, respectively. Blake Ashmore scored six points, followed by Derek Bycroft with five points and four rebounds.
“Jeremy and Blake hit some shots outside, and Kane and Tayton played well inside. Derek made good decisions tonight and got the ball where it needed to go.”
Knavel and Cokely scored five each. Nick Vaughn scored four, Barnhart had three, Miller two and Drake Sell one.
Independence’s seventh-grade B team defeated the Ponies, 29-7. Tim Komma scored all seven of Iola’s points.
Iola hosts Fort Scott Thursday.
Injuries don’t slow Iola Middle School eighth-graders in win
