Mount Spokane makes nine 3-pointers, moves past Gonzaga Prep in GSL basketball

MEAD, Wash. - It might have been freezing temperatures outside, but Mount Spokane's shooters were plenty warm inside Friday night.

The second-ranked Wildcats hit nine 3-pointers and rode a big third quarter to a 65-58 victory over Gonzaga Prep in 4A/3A Greater Spokane League action.

The Wildcats outscored the Bullpups, 27-12, in that decisive quarter, sinking four 3-pointers.

"You got to have kids step up in big moments, and today, especially in the third quarter, it fired everybody up." Mount Spokane coach David Wagenblast said when asked about the hot shooting.

The Mount Spokane defense also stepped up big when it needed to most. At one point,, back to back blocked shots on defense led to back to back 3-pointer on offense.

"I was really excited about our defense tonight. We played the whole second quarter without three starters,” Wagenblast said. "Those three guys that stepped up in the second quarter, played great defense."

Added Bode Gardner, who led the team with 20 points: "Our defense is something we pride over, just bringing energy.".

The Wildcats also shared the scoring load. Twelve of Gardner's 20 points came in the fourth quarter, including an 8-for-8 showing at the free throw line. For the Bullpups, guard Henry Sandberg led the team with 15 points.

Mount Spokane sits atop the GSL standings at 3-0 in league play and 12-1 overall. They face Lewis and Clark (1-1) 8-4 on the road next Tuesday. Gonzaga Prep (1-2) 9-5 will play Ridgeline (2-1) 11-2 at home next Tuesday.

(All photos by Lane Mathews)