One Down: Riverhawk Boys Win First of Final Three Regular Season Games

As the season comes to a close, the Riverhawk Boys’ Basketball Team still has hope to play during the first week of March, state championship week. On Friday, Mason City beat Des Moines Lincoln 53-46, led by senior Marcele Whitner, who had 18 points at the Roundhouse Arena. 

“I felt like my shot was on tonight,” said Whitner, “Also, I felt I was creating great opportunities for myself by getting to the line.”

Friday’s night’s game marked a 1-0 start to a 3-game road trip to end the regular season; the other teams they play this week are Charles City (3-14) on Monday, February 9th and Des Moines East (10-7) on Tuesday, February 10th. 

Coach Nicolas Trask says as conference season nears the final week, his strategy is to make sure the Riverhawks bring energy and focus.

“The next two games are important for several reasons,” said Coach Nicolas Trask, “You always want to end the season playing your best ball. This leads to confidence and great play into the playoffs. We also want to have the best record possible for when the state does brackets and seedings, so we can hopefully earn a home game.”

Trask says it’s key for his players to keep the momentum going.

“Our strategy going into the next two games is to make sure we are bringing the energy and focus needed. Towards the end of a season, those two things can sometimes take a dip,” said Trask.

The Riverhawks are projected to have a home game for the first round of substate playoffs as a 4th seed. This makes these games the most important, so Mason City doesn’t have to play on the road. Monday’s opponent, Charles City, is coming off their 5th straight loss against Humboldt, losing 82-66. Des Moines East (10-7 record) is coming off a 62-42 loss to Ames.