The Willow Springs Bears were in another tournament this week. They traveled to Mansfield for three games in a pool play tournament. On Tuesday, they faced RUSH, which is a home-school team. RUSH lead the game throughout, winning 75-42. RUSH utilized the their three point shooting to take control of the game, as well as their defense. The Bears were unable to get into a rhythm, which led to the difference on the scoreboard.
On Thursday night, the Bears faced the Eminence Redwings. Willow Springs used a quick start to lead through the first half. At the half, the Bears led 42-30. Eminence came out in the second half, determined to make the game competitive. Eminence was able to tie the game and even take a one point lead near the end of the third quarter and the beginning of the fourth quarter. Willow Springs used their defense and impressive ball control to regain the lead. The Bears had under ten turnovers for the game. Willow Springs pulled away and won the game 57-46. The win setup a matchup with the Bakersfield Lions.
On Saturday, Willow Springs faced the Lions from Bakersfield in a contest for third place. Bakersfield used their typical up tempo game plan and got out to a quick start. The Bears were able to keep up in the first quarter, but trailed after the first quarter 23-13. The Lions used their rebounding to aid their offense, leading by 18 at times. Fouls and tournovers by the Lions helped the Bears cut into the lead. The Lions clung to a three point lead at half, 43-40. Willow Springs was able to change the tempo of the game and it affected the Lions. The teams went back and forth for the entire quarter. The Lions still lead by three after the third quarter, 57-54. Bakersfield was able to pull away in the fourth quarter and won 82-67. Willow Springs is now (3-4) on the season.
The Willow Springs Bears have next week off. The Willow Springs Bears and Lady Bears will play Alton on Monday the 18th and Tuesday the 19th. Our next broadcast will the the 18th, with the Willow Springs Lady Bears.
