Russets shoot past the grizzlies to play tournament in Preston

SHELLEY – The Shelley Russets (6-1) and the Skyline Grizzlies (0-4) faced off Tuesday night, December 14, in a back-and-forth battle where shooting proficiency determined the game’s outcome.   

Game tipoff brought a fierce back and forth run and gun game for the Russets and the Grizzlies.  Skyline went up early on, but Shelley tied the game with two completed free throw shots by Alex Lott (10) and a rebound recovery followed by a 3-pointer by Devin Maldonado (2). Despite struggling with ball control, the Russets continued to lead Skyline and ended the first quarter up by six. 

Each team continued to score in the second quarter, but Shelley’s proficient shooting sustained their lead. One-shot by Cannon Vance (33), who hit a 3-pointer, charged the Russets.  At the half, the Russets lead by 7 points. 

Both teams played a more physical game in the second half, incurring more fouls.  Skyline, determined to tie up the game, missed many key shots, increasing the spread.

After the third quarter, Russet Cannon Vance was key to Shelley’s win with his rebounds and proficient shooting.  He led the team in scoring with 32 points. The Russets stayed on top and capped the game with a win of 72-61.

On Thursday, December 16, Shelley played in a non-conference tournament in Preston. They lost their first game of the season to the Kuna Kavemen 60 to 41. They played Nampa this afternoon at 3:00 p.m. and walked away with a 39 to 38 win. This game can be viewed on IdahoSports.com. Watch game

The Russets round out their 2021 schedule with a game tomorrow against a TBA team in the final leg of their tournament in Preston.