By Gerardo Bolong

University of Spokane used inside-outside tactics to end the season of Seamount League boys champion Kennedy Catholic, 68-59, at Central Valley High School in a Class 3A Hardwood Classic state regional boys basketball winner-to-the round of eight, loser-out game on Friday, Feb 28.

The Lancers overcame two good Titan leads to enter halftime in a 27-all draw.

Knowing how well University shot from the perimeter, Kennedy Catholic took away the perimeter game effectively, forcing the Titans to pass the ball into the low post for Ben Kuiper tp collect 17 points and eight rebounds while also posting three assists.

After the KC stayed closed at 47-45 after three quarters, the teams traded baskets, seemingly on every possession.

The Lancers (20-6) were within 56-55 in the final quarter, but the Titans played lockdown defense for a 12-4 run to the finish for their ticket to the Tacoma Dome.

James Jolly scored 20 points for Kennedy Catholic of Des Moines while Michael Sasanoff notched 11. A.J. McGrew nailed 11 points.

Players for the Lancers are Parker Diller, Keannu Royster, James Jolly, A.J. McGrew, Michael Sasonoff, Pierce Thompson, Emmett Abdian, Spencer Weisberg, Sawyer Ramsey, Zac Martin and James Edwards.

Head coach Don Hoffman's assistants are James Johnson and An Lieu. Bob Bourgette is the athletic director.