MISSION — For the first time in seven years, Union got the better of Nixyaawii, getting 22 points from KJ Klebaum in a 61-44 victory on Saturday night.
“We had to overcome some adversity tonight and I thought my kids did well playing through the adversity,” Nixyaawii coach Aaron Noisey said. “We are showing some growth in the area of mental toughness, and that’s what we are going to need during league play. It was a tough game and Union’s a great team. They played tough defense on us. They are well coached and coach Miller does a great job with his kids.”
Union (12-1), which has won 11 games in a row, opened the game with a 21-6 lead in the first quarter. Nixyaawii battled back with a 16-10 run in the second to pull within 31-22 at the half.
The Bobcats outscored the Golden Eagles 30-22 in the second half, getting 10 points from Klebaum and nine points from Joey McCraw.
“I’m exceptionally proud of our team for this win,” Union coach Odin Miller said. “It’s a big win for our program as it’s the first time we have beaten Nixy since I started coaching seven years ago. I appreciate our boys’ approach to this game and the mental strength it took to withstand the classic Nixy runs. This was another big checkmark on our list of goals for the season.”
Cash Bronson led the Golden Eagles (5-8) with 20 points, while Irvin Stewart had nine points and Jeffery Van Pelt eight.
Landon Fratzke added 18 points and six rebounds for the Bobcats, while McCraw had 11 points and eight rebounds. Dawson Miller hauled down 10 rebonds.
Nixyaawii will open Old Oregon League play Tuesday at Pilot Rock.
