Lake Region men get big win in season opener, 104-62

Article by Sam Herder, Devils Lake Journal Sports, published Nov. 2, 2015.

Getting the first win out of the way is always a relief for a first-year head coach. For Jared Marshall, it was no different.

His Lake Region State College men's basketball team shook off a slow start to run away from Leech Lake 104-62 Sunday at the Sports Center.

"We had a slow start, which I don't love," Marshall said. "It was about the 10-14 minute mark, they were at 16 points, it was either the media or I took a timeout, and we really locked down and I think they only scored six points the rest of the half."

The Royals found their groove to say the least at that point. Up 21-18, LRSC showed off its speed and went on a 30-0 run.

"It was more so sharing the ball and having fun out there," sophomore guard AJ Nywesh said. "That's all it is out there. We just go out and play for each other and share share share."

The Royals had four players in double digits. Leading the way was the efficiency of freshman Noah Bosh off the bench. Bosh went 10-of-11 shooting for 21 points.

"I challenged him to always make 2-3 shots, never miss back-to-back," Marshall said. "He came off and gave us a great spark off the bench. He takes high percentage shots."

With a commanding 55-22 lead at halftime, Marshall was able to get quality minutes from all his players.

"A lot of guys got involved today," Marshall said. "Four guys in double digits. It was a real good team effort."

The team effort resulted in a celebratory dumping of the water cooler over Marshall in the locker room after. 

For him, it was about as good of a start to the season as he could ask.

"It's exciting, basketball season is finally here," Nywesh said. "For coach Marshall to get his first win as head coach, it's all emotional right now. But now it's back to business and the next game"

That next game comes next Saturday against No. 23 Iowa Western Community College. The Royals play host in what will be a challenge to see where the team is at this early in the season.

"It's always nice to get that first win," Marshall said. "But we have to turn around and get ready for next week. We have the No. 23 team in the nation coming to town. A lot of stuff to clean up and work on."