MISSOULA – The first of the two-day Western A Tip Off Tournament began Friday in Missoula with 24 girls and boys teams getting their first shots of the season up.
Whitefish vs. Hamilton Boys – Coming into the matchup, Hamilton was the presumed favorite. However, Whitefish held a ten-point lead in the second half before Hamilton stormed back. In the final 30 seconds, Whitefish tied it with a big three. Hamilton had two chances to hit a game-winner — the first was blocked and second rimmed out. In overtime, Whitefish took over and won 71-65.
Frenchtown vs. Ronan Girls – In the second girls game of the day, it was Ronan and Frenchtown. Both teams came out struggling on offense before Frenchtown picked it up in the second half on its way to a 38-28 win.
Butte Central vs. Columbia Falls – In the first girls game of the day, it was Columbia Falls taking on Butte. Columbia Falls came out hot and never looked back as it won big, 66-17.
Polson vs. Stevensville Boys – This one was another close contest, as Polson took the lead with just three minutes left. The Pirates were able to close it out on defense and secure the 67-56 victory.
OTHER SCORES:
Boys:
Butte Central 60, Columbia Falls 35
Frenchtown 57, Ronan 52
Dillon 59, Libby 53
Corvallis 36, Browning 61
Girls:
Hamilton 31, Whitefish 34
Stevensville 56, Polson 36
Corvallis 30, Browning 53
Dillon 22, Libby 34
