The Holbrook Roadrunners took a big step toward the North Region crown with an impressive 75-59 home court win over Window Rock on Senior Night last Thursday. That win moved Holbrook’s regional record to 6-1, with the only loss coming to the Scouts prior to Christmas.
Playing in front of a packed house both teams played even throughout the opening frame. Kory Koerperich and Jalen Jackson both hit long balls to counter two big shots from Window Rock. In the second the Roadrunners got balanced scoring from six different players, helping them to a six-point working margin at the half.
In the third Jackson scored nine, helping the Birds double up the Scouts and take a 16-point lead into the final eight minutes. Both teams netted 19 in the fourth, with Bryson Keoni matching Jackson with eight in the period.
Holbrook was led in scoring by Jackson, who netted 28 in the game. Koerperich added 14, Keoni, 12, Ilacian Johnson, 8, Rashaun Baldwin, 5, and Torrian Epps and Joey Aguilera, 4 each. The Birds made five three-point shots and converted 20 of 33 free throws.
Window Rock was led by Jay Taliman with 19 points. Ty Wauneka added 11, Kyler Ashley, 10, Dominique Dale, 8, Josh Pablo, 5, and Taylor Davis, Ote Manson and Alex Destea, 2 each. The Scouts also made five three-point shots, and went eight for 18 at the charity stripe.
W Rock 15 15 10 19 59
Holbrook 16 20 20 19 75
Holbrook improved to 23-4 on the season. After playing at Ganado on Tuesday, the Roadrunners will wrap up the regular season at Winslow on Friday night, Feb. 4. Holbrook will be hosting a first round game in the state tournament, which begins in a couple of weeks. Prior to that, the Birds will be in action at the 3A North Regional Tournament, which gets underway next week in Chinle.
