Trojans can't overcome slow start to Iowa Valley

Coming off a close game against Keota, the Tri-County boys' basketball coach was worried about playing with less energy and not building off what they'd done right. A slow start against Iowa Valley on January 22 didn't necessarily cost the Trojans the game, but it put them in a hole early and wound up losing 49-60.

The first quarter was a slow and cold one for the Trojans, scoring just four points. The defense faltered early also, giving themselves a 4-16 deficit. The offense took off with some much-needed points in the following quarter, putting up 22 points, while allowing 15. Despite going into the half down by five, the Trojans were optimistic they could pull it out.

They didn't gain any ground in the third, but also didn't widen the deficit as each side put up a dozen points. The Trojans were giving themselves a chance late, something they'd done much of the season. All they needed to do was finish.

The offense cooled off a little, as they put together an 11-point quarter, while the defense wasn't able to get some necessary stops down the stretch. A 17-point quarter from Iowa Valley resulted in a final 49-60 loss for the visiting Trojans.

Cameron Krumm led Tri-County in multiple categories, as he has most of this season. He finished with 21 points, 13 rebounds, five steals, two assists and one block. Tri-County also got some supporting help from Brayden Monroe, who poured in 15 points. Monroe also had five assists, five steals and one rebound.

Aydan Bos had six points, Dylan Seaton had four points and Brandt Molyneaux had three points to round out the scoring.

The Trojans hosted the Sigourney Savages on January 26, in an attempt to get back on the winning path with five games remaining.