Resiliency has been something that Winterset basketball has found time in and time out throughout this season, and it was on full display in Des Moines on Tuesday afternoon, as they were able to fend off a difficult Marion team in the 3A quarterfinals 81-77 in a wild back and forth contest. Winterset picks up win number 20 on the year, Marion ends the year at 19-6.

The first eight minutes were quick, both teams tied 14 after 1, and Winterset a 28-27 lead at half. The third quarter went crazy, with senior Levi Gurwell and Marion junior Brayson Laube were swapping big buckets, the score having Winterset ahead 49-47. The fourth quarter was a masterpiece, as Winterset was able to get a major quarter out of junior Brayden Dinkla as he had nine points and an assist. It was 66-60 Winterset with just over two minutes, but Marion went on a 9-3 run to end the quarter and send the game to OT.

The Huskies threw big punches in OT, as Dinkla was able to get a few more buckets, then the Huskies got the stops they needed to end the game.

Dinkla was able to lead the Huskies with 26 points, senior Nathan Avery had 22 points and  Gurwell ended up with 16 points. Junior Charlie McDonald was fantastic off of the bench, as he put up a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Laube was able to lead all scorers with 35 points for Marion.

The Huskies and Wolves struggled to create distance between the two teams the entire game, Winterset’s largest lead at 6 points and Marion’s at 5 points. Winterset had 10 turnovers in the first half, but only 4 in the second half and OT, making major adjustments. Winterset was just able to find the big plays at the right moments to pull out a thrilling win.

A major challenge awaits the 4 seeded Huskies on Thursday afternoon in Des Moines, as they will be taking on the top overall seed in Dallas Center – Grimes. You can listen to the game on True Country K1079, the KKRF, and raccoonvalleyradio.com. First tip of the game will be happening at 2 pm.