Chieftains split games as league play revs up

By Ginna Young

Lake Holcombe faced off with two tough opponents, in boys basketball matches over the week.

Jan. 14 vs. New Auburn conference (L 71-51)

The Chieftains were in action on the road at New Auburn, but were unabe to overcome a determined home team, who took the win, 71-51.

“Despite (senior) Brian Strzok’s dominant night offensively, New Auburn played a physical game inside that we struggled with,” said coach Dave Engel.

Strzok finished the game with 28 points, while junior Brody Miller and Connor Kane each added 8, and sophomore Emmit Johnson was right behind, with 7.

Jan. 17 vs. Flambeau conference (W 51-48)

Lake Holcombe finished out the week at home, hosting Flambeau, in what proved to be an exciting match.

“We were able to get out fast on Flambeau,” said Engel. “They’re a good team and good teams figure out a way to fight back, and they did.”

Down just by three points at the break, the Chieftains clawed their way back in the second half, to take the lead and the victory, 51-48.

Strzok came up with 20 points on the night, while Johnson had 13 and freshman Kyle Heidtke ended with 8. Kane followed that with 6 points, and Miller and senior Trent Lee each added 2 points.

“For us, it was our tough defense, ball passing and the bigs hitting the boards hard, that gave us the win,” said Engel. “Our win was outshined by Brian Strzok achieving a career milestone.”

As time ran down, Strzok connected on a free throw at the line, to notch his 1,000th career point.

“I don’t think you could have drawn it up any better,” said Engel. “I’m proud to have the chance to coach him this year, he deserves every accolade he gets.”

The win brings the season record to 6-6 overall and 4-3 in East Lakeland Conference play.