COLUMBUS – The Huntley Project boys needed all 32 minutes to hold off Joliet, while the Columbus girls only needed the first eight to bring home District 4B championships Saturday night in Columbus.
The Red Devils controlled most of the boys game, until Joliet’s Walker Anttila hit a 3-pointer late in the fourth quarter to give the J-Hawks their first lead of the night. Huntley Project responded, as Noah Bouchard converted a fast break layup and was fouled, giving the Devils the lead back for good in a 45-41 win.
Bouchard scored 14 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, while Isaiah Bouchard added 16 points and 11 rebounds. Ry Olson led Joliet with 16 points.
Huntley Project had a chance to sweep the district titles, but the girls never got going in the late game, as Columbus rolled to a 53-28 win. The Cougars led 19-6 after the first quarter and 30-12 at halftime.
Five Columbus players scored at least seven points, led by Payton West’s 10 off the bench. Amanda Cranford led the Red Devils with 12.
All four teams will advance to the Southern B Divisional, set for Feb. 28-Mar. 2 at Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark in Billings. Roundup’s girls and Red Lodge’s boys won consolation games earlier in the day to also advance.
