Clark Fork falls in state tourney

CALDWELL — Once again, one poor shooting quarter proved to be the difference as Clark Fork scored only five third quarter points in a 62-54 loss to Carey at the 1A boys basketball state championships at Vallivue High School.

Mike Martin had his season's average with 12 points and four assists, and senior Cameron Jeffres had 11 points, four rebounds and three assists to lead the Cats. The third quarter and turnovers proved to be the difference, as the Cats (15-9) had trouble with Carey's pressure and committed 20 turnovers.

"It was close until the last three or four minutes," Clark Fork coach Brian Powell said. "We played them tough, and we managed to play three good quarters and one bad one."

Brad Hunt had 20 points to lead Carey (21-5), which had three players account for all but eight of their points. They used speed and pressure to counter their height disadvantage.

There is no such thing as an easy win at state as every team in the bracket has beaten the best from their region of the state to get there. Powell found solace in the fact that his team played some of their best basketball of the season despite losing both games at state.

"The level of competition is quite a bit higher down here," said Powell, whose team was competitive in both games. "We were picked to finish fourth in the North Star League and we won it. The kids had a good season and shouldn't be disappointed. Of course you want to win, but they've got their heads up and it's all good."

Thomas McMahon had a solid all-around game, posting eight points, five rebounds, four steals and three assist, and Jared Broggi added 10 points and seven boards in the loss.

The Cats return four of their five starters next season, where state experience is sure to pay dividends as they look to make a return voyage.

"They've seen what they need to do," said Powell. "A lot of the kids are already talking about what they need to do for next year."

Clark Fork 18 13 5 18 — 54

Carey 16 14 12 20 — 62

CLARK FORK — Martin 12, Young 0, Anderson 0, Jeffres 2, McMahon 8, Baugh 0, C. Jeffres 11, Cornwall 0, Wilkinson 7, Gustafson 4, Broggi 10.

CAREY — Hunt 20, Peck 17, Rivera 2, Carlson 6, Simpson 17 Baird 0, Whitby 0.

Other scores:

Timberline 72, Coeur d'Alene 63

Moscow 55, Preston 49

Coeur d'Alene Charter 62, Council 51