BMS boys’ basketball teams wrap up successful seasons

MEEKER |  The Barone Middle School seventh and eighth-grade boys’ basketball teams concluded their seasons this past weekend with season-ending tournaments. The seventh-grade team hosted Sleeping Giant and Moffat County, while the eighth-grade team competed in Steamboat Springs.  

Seventh-Grade Tournament Recap  

On Friday morning, Meeker’s seventh-grade A team faced Sleeping Giant’s A team in a competitive matchup. Meeker emerged victorious, with Gael leading the scoring effort with 16 points. Teammates Tyler and Thomas added 13 and 7 points, respectively.  

The seventh-grade B team played Sleeping Giant’s B team in a hard-fought game but fell short. Graysin and Tadeo each scored 2 points, while Jaxson contributed 1 point.  

In their next game, the B team faced Craig’s B team in another close contest but couldn’t secure the win. Graysin, Owen, and Tanner each scored 2 points, with Tadeo and Rylan adding 1 point apiece.  

The A team then took on Craig’s A team in a game that tested their endurance and teamwork. Meeker secured a second win, with Gael leading the way with 13 points. Cade followed with 8 points, and Thomas and Tyler each contributed 4 points. Owen rounded out the scoring with 2 points.  

With two wins, Meeker’s seventh-grade A team clinched the tournament championship.  

Eighth-Grade Tournament Recap

The eighth-grade A team entered their tournament as the top seed, earning a first-round bye. In the semifinals, they faced Craig’s A team. Meeker’s offense proved unstoppable, and they secured a 35-23 victory.  

In the championship game, the Cowboys faced tournament host Steamboat Springs. Reflecting on the matchup, Head Coach Travis Anderson shared his approach:  

“I challenged the boys to stay mentally focused, and they rose to the challenge,” Anderson said.  

The Cowboys started strong, with Bryant Turner excelling in outside shooting. Jake Grieser efficiently managed point guard duties, while Liam Thomson dominated inside and Lawson Anderson contributed inside and outside. Despite Steamboat’s defensive adjustments, Meeker pulled ahead early and maintained their lead, ultimately winning 42-23.  

The victory capped an undefeated season for the eighth-grade A team. Coach Anderson praised his players and expressed excitement for their future:  

“This group of boys has had a lot of success, and I look forward to seeing them continue that at the next level,” he said.  

The eighth-grade B team, playing short-handed, competed valiantly in their tournament but lost both games. Coach Anderson highlighted the team’s progress:  

“Over half the B team hadn’t played organized basketball before this year, but by the end of the season, they were playing efficiently and as a team,” Anderson said. “I’m encouraged by their growth and believe they have a lot of potential if they keep working hard.”  

Both the seventh and eighth-grade boys’ basketball teams delivered impressive performances throughout the season, making their community proud. Congratulations to all players for their hard work and dedication. 

By JARED HENDERSON