COOPERSTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Oakes goes on the road and knocks off Griggs-Midkota by a final score of 41-30. Going into this game, Griggs-Midkota had an 0-3 record and Oakes had two losses in-a-row so something had to give.

In the first half, it was all about the defense. The Tornadoes were able to get multiple steals with treacherous perimeter defense from guards Xavier Vossler, Joey Heim, Trey Skoglund, and David Schmitz. They were able to get their hands in the passing lanes and get steals and easy fast-break baskets as a result.

The half-court offense was a struggle for both teams in the first half with both teams playing solid defense and rather missing open jumpers or forcing up wild shots. Going into the halftime break, Oakes had a 19-11 lead.

In the second half, the Tornadoes were able to compose themselves and settle down in their half-court offense and knock down shots to keep the Titans at bay.

Oakes stayed relentless on the defensive end and Griggs-Midkota was unable to get any rallies going. There were moments in the third quarter where they were two possessions behind with the ball, but they weren’t ever able to capitalize.

Oakes improves to 1-1 in district play and 2-4 overall. Their next game will be at home against Barnes County North on Friday at 7:30 p.m.