Clare boys tamed by Chippewa Hills in district opener

By BEN MURPHY

Cleaver Sports Writer

The post-season was unfortunately short-lived for the Clare boys basketball team. The Pioneers were taking on Chippewa Hills in Shepherd on Monday, Feb. 23 in both team’s Division 2 district opener. The game was close at times, but in the end, it was Chip Hills that pulled off the victory to extend its season, 57-47.

Clare played well early on, taking a 13-12 lead after the first quarter. The Pioneers were down only 20-19 midway through the second, but a 7-2 run to close the half by the Warriors gave them a 27-21 lead at the break.

Clare went on a 6-0 run to tie the game at 27-apiece, and while they did get in front in the frame at one point, Chip Hills took a 42-36 lead into the fourth.

Chip Hills also ended the game on a 12-4 run to ice their victory.

The Pioneers were led by Dane Alexander with a game-high 21 points, including a three-pointer that gave Clare a lead in the third.

Leading the Warriors was Maverick Chapman with 19 points and Logan Pelong added 12 points to their win.

Clare finishes the season 9-13 overall.