Raiders Stun Yuma 53-46

Sidney’s Red Raider boy’s basketball team has struggled so far this season, but head coach Austin Lewis has consistently said the team was improving and hoped they gelled together in time for post season play.

A big step towards that goal was taken by the Red Raiders on Saturday, as they traveled to Colorado and beat the number 1 ranked Class 2A undefeated Yuma Indians, 53-to-46.

“We started and finished the game shooting pretty well. When the ball is going in it can make a huge difference in a team’s energy,” said Lewis.

It was a welcome change for the Red Raiders, who have had trouble making their shots fall all season. Sidney started fast and with a solid defensive effort, were able to hold a 16-to-9 lead at the end of the first quarter. The teams battled through the second quarter, with Sidney matching the Indian’s scoring, and the Red Raiders went into the break leading 28-to-22.

The defensive effort and Sidney finally getting their field goals and three point shots to fall were the difference in the game, with the Red Raiders keeping Yuma’s scoring threats well below their season averages while knocking down nine three point shots in the game. The Red Raiders also were successful with their free throws, going 9-for-12 at the charity stripe for the night.

The teams battled back and forth through the second half, with both teams scoring eight in the third period, while Sidney outscored the Indians in the fourth quarter 17-to-16 to end the game with the 53-to-46 Sidney upset.

“It was a good road win over a good team, and our guys can be really proud of that”, said Lewis.

Senior Arik Doty led the scoring, hitting five three pointers and ending with 26 points in the victory. Sidney hopes to keep the winning momentum going as the next travel to Chadron on Thursday to face the Cardinals.