Wildcats, Rangers fall on opening night

SPENCERVILLE — Minster lost to Spencerville 52-43 in non league boys basketball on Friday night.

It was the season opener for both teams.

Minster was led by Brogan Stephey with 15 points and Johnny Nixon with 13.

For Spencerville, high scorers were Dylan Smith with 18 points and Josh Henline with 12.

Minster took an 11-5 lead in the first quarter. Stephey had a three and a two, Nixon hit a basket and two free throws, and Noah Piipari made two foul shots.

In the second period, Spencerville had 11 points, with 10 by the Wildcats. Minster thus led 21-16 at halftime. Nixon had a two-pointer and three free throws. Devan Wuebker made a basket and one free throw. Stephey and Zach Fortman made one each from the stripe as well.

Spencerville had a two-point edge in the third, with Minster still ahead 32-29. Stephey made two shots, with one apiece from Fortman, Piipari and Nixon. Nixon also made one of two free throws.

The Bearcats then outscored Minster 2311 in the final eight minutes to take the win. Stephen had a two and a three, and James Niemeyer had a 3-pointer. At the line, Fortman hit two shots and Nixon made one.

Spencerville won the JV game 56-40.

Minster (0-1) will be off until next Friday when they will host Wapakoneta. JV play begins at 6 p.m.

Anna 72, New Knoxville 43

ANNA — New Knoxville lost to host Anna in a non league game to open the season.

The Rockets outscored New Knoxville 22-9 and 21-9 in the first two periods for a 43-18 lead at the half.

The third and fourth quarters were more balanced, with a four-point edge for Anna in the third and the fourth having a difference of two.

Max Henschen had 11 points for New Knoxville. Carson Bierlein and Ryan Osborne scored nine points each.

New Knoxville (0-1) will host St. Marys tonight, with JV at 6 p.m.