Rockridge’s Rockets opened their defense of the #1 seed with a decisive 54-22 win over the Liberty Eagles. Led by a quad of double-digit scorers, Rockridge made a statement in this contest. In a fairly close first quarter that resulted in a 12-7 Rockets lead, Rockridge outscored Liberty in the second quarter by 14 points. Liberty was able to slow the bleeding in the second half, but a running clock (limited stoppage of time triggered by a 30-point differential) ensured the Rocket victory.
As mentioned before, Rockridge was led by four double-digit scorers. Landon Bull and Caleb Cunico tied for game-high 12 points. Landon Wheatley contributed 11 points while Jase Whiteman added 10 more. Whiteman also had a team-high four assists and four steals. Kameron Bohnsack also swiped four steals as Rockridge “stole” the show with a ridiculous 20 steals.
Liberty was led in points (eight) and rebounds (six) by junior forward Tanner Gimm. Wil Maas was runner-up for the Eagles in both points (six) and rebounds (five). Liberty shot just 31% from the field in this one and will look to rebound in their consolation match in round 2.
Rockridge (8-2) moves on to face Illini Bluffs in the quarterfinal on Wednesday in Game 13. Liberty (1-12) falls to the consolation bracket but has a chance to extend their tournament in the 9:00am consolation Game 9 against Monmouth-Roseville.
Box Score
Rockridge Info
Liberty Info
Chris Derry
December 27, 2022
