Cold shooting night cost Indians against Grinnell 55-51

The Indians took a run at the Tigers lead on Tuesday night, but ultimately fell short, as Grinnell hung on for the win.

by Doug DeKock

Oskaloosa and Grinnell came into their Little Hawkeye matchup Tuesday night with the #3 and #4 offenses in 3A. When it was over, both teams fell short of their season averages, as the Tigers escaped with a 55-51 win. Grinnell completed a season sweep of the Indians winning 77-66 in their first matchup. Both teams were ice cold in the first half ad Grinnell was able to ride Sam Allen and Cade McKnight to a low scoring 25-21 halftime lead. The Tigers held a slim 17-12 1st quarter lead, as both teams missed open shots. Grinnell was able to create some separation in the 3rd quarter as Allen and McKnight hurt the Indians on the offensive end, pulling away to a 45-35 lead after 3 quarters. The senior duo each finished with 22 points and McKnight also hurt the Indians on the boards. Oskaloosa made a furious comeback late in the 4th quarter and actually had a chance to tie the game or take the lead at 50. A missed shot and a Grinnell conversion helped seal the Indians fate. Grinnell would close out the game, hitting their free throws for the 55-51 win.

Jarad Kruse continued his hot play leading the Indians with 22 points. Kruse is quickly positioning himself as an all-state candidate for Oskaloosa. Jack Moore and Xavier Foster each scored 8 points while Cole Henry scored 6. The Indians have struggled against zone defenses and will get another heavy dose of zone Friday night when they face a tough DCG team. Oskaloosa falls to 8-5 overall and 3-5 in the LHC. Grinnell improved to 8-6 overall and 4-5 in the LHC. The Osky boys will follow the girls game at 6:15pm in Grimes on Friday.