In a thrilling match held on Tuesday night, the ninth-ranked St. Edmond boys basketball team returned to their home court for the first time in 2025 and faced off against Iowa Falls-Alden. Despite a slow start, the Gaels quickly regained momentum and secured a decisive 73-60 victory. This win marks the fifth consecutive triumph for St. Edmond and completes a season sweep over the Cadets. Key players such as Hunter Horn, who led the scoring with 27 points, and Andrew Clavey, who contributed significantly with his rebounds and shooting, played pivotal roles in the game.
The contest began with an unexpected twist as the Cadets took an early lead, scoring the first seven points. However, St. Edmond gradually narrowed the gap and by halftime, they were leading 30-27. The turning point came in the third quarter when the Gaels unleashed an impressive 11-0 run, fueled by clutch performances from Clavey and Horn. Coach Adolph Kochendorfer emphasized the importance of this surge and praised his team's ability to capitalize on rebounds and transition plays.
Horn's dominance was evident throughout the game, not only in scoring but also in his rebounding efforts. He was supported by Jakob Koopman, who added a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. The defensive contributions from players like Jack McElroy, who recorded eight rebounds and two steals, further solidified the Gaels' advantage. The Cadets tried to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, hitting several long-range shots, but it wasn't enough to overcome St. Edmond's steady performance.
Kale Kalous and Karsen Kalous were standout performers for Iowa Falls-Alden, scoring 19 and 16 points respectively. Despite their efforts, the Cadets struggled to match the Gaels' intensity and versatility. St. Edmond's balanced attack, combined with their resilience, ensured that they maintained control of the game from the third quarter onward. Looking ahead, the Gaels will aim to extend their winning streak when they host Clarion-Goldfield/Dows this Friday evening.
St. Edmond's victory highlighted their team's depth and adaptability. The Gaels demonstrated that they can overcome initial challenges and turn things around with strategic plays and strong teamwork. Their upcoming match promises to be another exciting test of their skills and determination.