Clark Fork boys slip past Wallace Miners

WALLACE — Clark Fork senior Clayton Hewitt hit two free throws with 17.5 seconds remaining to put the Wampus Cats over the Wallace Miners 49-48 in North Star League action on Friday night.

"My guards looked inside tonight and Wallace had no answer for Clayton," said Clark Fork coach Jamie Hand. "This game was a big improvement."

The Wampus Cats jumped out to an early 5-2 lead, and led Wallace 24-23 at the half.

Hewitt paced the Wampus Cats with a game-high 26 points and nine rebounds. Junior Kyle Ruen finished with 16 points, while senior Stephen McDaniel had six assists and junior Brian Young grabbed four steals.

In the fourth quarter, Hewitt put the Wampus Cats ahead 43-38 on a layup at the midway point of the period. Wallace junior Justin Keener cut the lead to 43-40 on a layup and Stefan Norris trimmed the lead to 43-42 on a jumper.

Following a basket by Hewitt, the Miners (2-6, 4-9) regained the lead with time running down on a layup by Paul Norris. However, the Miners couldn't hold it as Hewitt drained his free throws for the win.

Clark Fork (3-2, 3-6) plays host to Coeur d'Alene Charter on Tuesday.

Wallace was led by Paul Norris, Keener and Stefan Norris with 11 points apiece. Freshman Tom Norris grabbed six rebounds.

Clark Fork 9 15 15 10 — 49

Wallace 12 11 13 12 — 48

CLARK FORK — Hewitt 26, Ruen 16, McDaniel 4, Young 3.

WALLACE — P. Norris 11, Keener 11, T. Norris 9, Bartel 6, S. Norris 11.