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Top-seeded WEM gets by No. 4 Nicollet

By Jeff Meder

Journal Sports Writer

LAKE CRYSTAL — Top-seeded Waterville-Elysian-Morristown defeated No. 4-seeded Nicollet on Thursday 71-66 in the Section 2A, South Subsection boys’ basketball semifinals.

The Raiders concluded their season with a record of 21-6.

During the first half, there were eight lead changes and five ties. WEM led 36-32 at halftime.

“It was a tough loss for us,” Nicollet head coach Chris Hulke said. “We gave up too many open shots in the first half.”

Coach Hulke noted that the Raiders played “tentative” in the first half.

Nicollet made only 2 out of 5 free throws late in the second half and it missed some layups.

WEM used a press on the Raiders off and on during the game.

WEM was able to make key shots throughout the second half. Nicollet tried to regain the momentum, but WEM was able to hold off the Raiders by making important free throws as the contest wound down.

Shane Stevensen had 29 points and 10 rebounds, while Riley Hulke added 22 points and 11 assists. Coach Hulke said Riley was double-teamed throughout the contest, yet he remained poised and was able to get the ball to other teammates.

WEM will face the winner of the Springfield-Mountain Lake Area/Comfrey game at 7:45 p.m. on Monday at Gustavus-Adolphus.

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