No. 1 CMCS Dominates LQPV 104-25 in Section 3A-North Playoff

BREAKING: The top-seeded Central Minnesota Christian School (CMCS) boys basketball team decisively defeated No. 8 Lac qui Parle Valley (LQPV) 104-25 in the Section 3A-North playoffs held at Montevideo High School. This commanding victory, secured just hours ago, propels CMCS into the semifinals where they will face fourth-seeded Renville County West on March 12, 2023, at 5:45 PM.

Despite the overwhelming score, CMCS coach Ted Taatjes expressed concerns leading up to the game. He worried about his team potentially underestimating LQPV and the impact of a smaller crowd due to poor weather conditions. “I didn’t sleep at all last night, so they definitely had our attention,” Taatjes stated post-game.

The match began with a surprising twist as CMCS was hit with a technical foul for dunking during warmups, giving LQPV an early 2-0 lead. However, that advantage was short-lived. CMCS quickly responded with a staggering 15-point run, eventually extending their lead to 35-4 before LQPV could regroup.

Asher Weberdink led the scoring for CMCS with an impressive 22 points, including two dunks that energized the team and the sparse crowd. Sophomore Caleb Asake contributed 20 points, while Chase and Landon Taatjes each added 15 points to the Bluejays’ tally. CMCS closed the first half with a dominant lead of 68-16.

“We learned a lesson,” Taatjes reflected on the technical foul incident. “He (Weberdink) said he was sorry about it. I don’t think I’ve ever had that called on me before.” The Bluejays showcased their strength throughout the game, with outstanding performances in rebounds and assists, leading the stats in nearly every category.

In other Section 3A-North playoff action, No. 2 Dawson-Boyd triumphed over Yellow Medicine East with a score of 75-50, while No. 3 Wabasso defeated No. 6 Minneota 81-60. The championship game is scheduled for 5 PM on March 12 at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, where a coveted state berth is at stake.

Meanwhile, Renville County West advanced by defeating No. 5 MACCRAY 76-58, thanks to standout performances by Jonathan Driggs, who notched 29 points and 22 rebounds. The Jaguars are gearing up for a challenging match against CMCS, creating an exciting atmosphere for local basketball fans.

As the playoffs continue, all eyes will be on CMCS as they aim to maintain their dominance and secure a place in the state championships. Taatjes is optimistic about their tight schedule, saying, “I kind of like this schedule. We have only one day to prepare, but then we get more time later to prepare if we advance.”

Stay tuned for more updates as the playoffs unfold! The excitement is palpable as teams vie for the championship title and a chance to compete at the state level.