Bulldogs defeat Lakeland, 55-51

RATHDRUM — Spencer Swerin had 19 points, eight rebounds and five assists to help lead Sandpoint to a 55-51 win over Lakeland Thursday night in the 4A district playoff opener at Lakeland High School.

Tanner French added 13 points and five assists, Kyle Gibson scored 12 and Ryan Armbruster had nine points and eight rebounds to pace the Bulldogs (6-14)

"We came out and shot the ball well early," said Sandpoint coach Lance Bruce of the key. "Ryan and Tanner hit two early threes and we were able to build an early 10 point lead."

Joel Underdahl had 15 points to lead Lakeland (6-14).

Sandpoint plays at No. 1 seed Moscow Saturday at 7 p.m. in the true double-elimination format.

Sandpoint 15 16 12 12 — 55

Lakeland 10 9 14 18 — 51

SANDPOINT — Swerin 19, French 13, Gibson 12, Armbruster 9.

? Post Falls girls win state opener

NAMPA — Sophomore Katelyn Loper scored 23 points, including 15 of 15 free throws, as the Trojans held off Highland of Pocatello for a 54-49 victory Thursday afternoon at the Idaho Center in the state 5A girls basketball opener.

Also in 5A action, fellow Inland Empire League member Coeur d'Alene Knocked off Centennial 55-50, behind 19 points from Ali Johnson.

? NSL's Wallace and Kootenai two and out at state

Lapwai ran wild over Wallace, downing the Lady Miners 81-15 in the 1A state playoffs, eliminating Wallace after consecutive losses.

Hannah Nyrop scored 18, but it wasn't enough as Kootenai fell 58-44 to Cascade, the Warriors second loss of the tournament.

? Sugar Salem 56, Priest River 47