Early run helps Runnin’ Lopes take down Knights

Lamar, Colo. – Brady Kennison and Winston Allen combined for 31 points, but North Platte was unable to overcome a decisive first-half run by Lamar in an 84-67 loss on Saturday afternoon.

Kennison led the Knights with 18 points on 7-of-19 shooting from the field, while Allen chipped in 13 points and eight rebounds in 24 minutes.

"Really bad night for us offensively," said head coach Jacob Brandl. "Thought we had a lot of really clean looks that we didn't get to go in, and we weren't very sharp at the free throw line."

The game opened competitively, with both teams trading short runs and each building brief five-point leads. Lamar then seized control unleashing a 17-1 run that carried the Runnin' Lopes into halftime with a 39-29 lead.

The teams traded baskets early in the second half before Lamar gradually extended its lead to as many as 21 points with 4:11 remaining. North Platte made a late push, but the Runnin' Lopes maintained a comfortable margin to secure the win.

"Back to work this week as the region doesn't get any easier," Brandl said.

North Platte (12-8) continues Region 9 South play at home on Wednesday against Northeastern Junior College. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.