Whitefish fends off previously undefeated Eureka Lions

Whitefish handed previously undefeated nonconference foe Eureka its first loss of the season, downing the Lions 69-59 in their gym on Tuesday, Dec. 19, as a pair of Bulldog players scored 18 points in the victory. Whitefish improved to 4-2 on the year and is one of two Northwest A Conference teams with four wins.

Mason Kelch and Carson Gulick each had 18 points, while Mason Genovese notched 9.

Whitefish led 24-14 after the first quarter, but Eureka came roaring back in the second with an 18-8 run to knot things up at 32-32 for halftime.

“Our guys had an amazing first quarter,” Whitefish head coach Alex Gonzalez said. “Eureka went on a huge 10-0 run in the second quarter, and it was back and forth. I believe it’s huge to have two guys with 18 points. However, Mason Genovese also gave us a spark on defense. His defense has been pretty on point. He made a crucial three in the fourth quarter.”

The Bulldogs grabbed onto a 4-point lead in the third and added to their advantage in the fourth.

“After halftime, we made it a point to focus on their shooters,” Gonzalez said. “They had two perimeter players that shot exceptionally well. I just told our guys it’s going to be a battle of will. Who’s going to want it more?”

Gonzalez added that the Bulldogs also made some minor adjustments on offense.

“I was extremely proud of Scott Dalen,” he said. “He gave us energy, great defense and some very valuable minutes. We always preach about the importance of knowing your role and the value of maintaining the same level of intensity.”

Gonzalez also said that Gulick’s dunk attempt, although missed, provided the team with a lot of energy during the contest as well.

“I’m proud of our efforts and their will to compete,” Gonzalez said. “They definitely were focused and knew they accepted the challenge. We will continue to improve and grow as basketball players.” 

WHITEFISH 69, EUREKA 59

Whitefish - 24 - 8 - 14 - 23 - 69

Eureka - 14 - 18 - 10 - 17 - 59

WHITEFISH SCORING - Mason Kelch 18, Carson Gulick 18, Mason Genovese 9, CJ Thew 8, Scotty Dalen 4