Wolves open Divisional Tourney with Baker

For the sixth straight season, the Three Forks High School Boys' Basketball team is headed to the Southern B Divisional Tournament at the Metra Park Arena in Billings.

The 5B District regular season and tournament champions will open the tournament with a Wednesday, March 1, matchup at 4 p.m. against Baker.

Head Coach Terry Hauser loves having the extra week of preparation between the district and divisional tournaments.

"We get to prepare more, and also, if you are banged up at all, you get some extra rest to get healthy for the chance to go to state," said Hauser. "The only bad part is having to wait so long; it is another week to have anxiety and worry."

Looking towards the matchup against the Spartans, the third seed from 3B, Hauser said Baker is a good, solid team and well-coached.

"When you get to Divisionals, there are no more easy games. Every team had to beat some good teams to get there. We need to limit their point guards' paint touches on defense and make sure all five guys are boxing out on every possession," said Hauser. "Offensively, they are a half-court man defensive team, so we need to attack the rim relentlessly and get to the paint forcing long closeouts over and over. Making the right decision with the basketball after we get to the point will be crucial."

The winner of Wednesday's game will move on to the semifinals and a Friday matchup at 7:30 p.m. in the Metra against Lodge Grass or Columbus.

"It's always exciting at the Metra, and it is the best facility in the state. It's awesome to have a chance at a state tournament berth again with the potential for some more hardware to add to the trophy case," said Hauser. "But it's also huge to get these youngsters some experience for next year. No matter what happens, there is no pressure, as it's already been such a successful year. Let's see if these young men will again exceed expectations and shock some more people across the Southern B"!