ABERDEEN, S.D. — Behind Kamden Keszler’s 30 points, defending Class B champion Castlewood held off a challenge from Aberdeen Christian 53-50 in the quarterfinal round of the Boys Class B state tournament Thursday.
The Knights led 30-23 at the half, but the Warriors settled down in the third quarter, holding Aberdeen Christian to just eight points to tie the game at 38 heading into the fourth. The Warriors led by as many as eight early in the final period before Aberdeen Christian battled back late. Free throws by Brody Bass down the stretch secured the win for Castlewood.
“We’re not always pretty at times, but, you know, we do what we have to do to win games and get ourselves to that next round,” Castlewood coach Paul Raasch told SDPB Sports.
In addition to his 30 points, Keszler, a senior, grabbed four rebounds. Leonard Wernke was Castlewood’s leading rebounder with eight to go along with four points and three assists. Bass finished with eight points and six rebounds.
“Brody is the glue guy for us. Kam’s our spark plug, but Brody’s the guy that holds us together,” Raasch said. “Both those guys did their jobs today and luckily we’re moving on.”
Two Knights reached double figures, led by Luke Kaiser’s 11 points, six boards, and three assists. Brooks Jett added 10 points and six rebounds.
No. 5 Castlewood faces No. 8 Lyman in the semifinals Friday at 5 p.m. Lyman advanced by knocking off No. 1 Viborg-Hurley. SDPB will provide coverage on SDPB-TV2, SDPB.org/Basketball, and YouTube.
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