The Kennedy Varsity Boys Basketball team delivered a win against rival #8 ranked Linn-Mar this Monday, Feb. 2. This was an upsetting game for the Lions, fueled by the Cougars shooting. Kennedy improved their record to 9-6 and the Lions record is now 10-5.
Kennedy started off making 10 threes in the first half while moving the ball effectively. The Cougars stayed focused on defense, picking up multiple steals and disrupting the Lions in the passing lanes. Linn-Mar scored on the first possession of the game, but failed to take the lead the rest of the game, allowing the Cougars to stay ahead.
On the offensive side of the ball, Kennedy received key contributions from junior Jaxson Bean and freshman Kaden Gomez. Bean and Gomez teamed up for eight 3-pointers. Bean scored a season high 25 points while maintaining a high vision of the court with seven assists. Gomez scored 16 points off of 80% shooting while pulling in six rebounds, this marks his fifth game in a row scoring over 12 points.
The Cougars had a solid outing at the free throw line, making 14 of their 17 opportunities. These free throws came at key times in the game allowing the Cougars to put an end to the Lions momentum.
Although the Lions won the rebounding battle, Kennedy turned the ball over six less times, turning those opportunities into points. Kennedy secured timely stops during critical moments, specifically when Linn Mar was attempting to reduce the deficit.Â
The Cougars will look to carry the momentum from Monday’s win in a crosstown battle against Cedar Rapids Washington at Kennedy on Feb. 6. The Washington Warriors enter the contest with a 6-9 record.
