Trooper boys open with win
By MINDY IGLEHART
The Garrison Troopers boys basketball team started the season off right, beating the Surrey Mustangs 53-46 Saturday afternoon.
The Troop’s nerves showed, turning the ball over 27 times but the team pulled it together to outscore the Mustangs in three out of four quarters.
Coach Jason Mattheis has a young team this year but he is confident in the boys’ athleticism.
"It was a good win," he said, "We have to get used to the speed, tempo, and physical nature of the game."
The Troopers have two tough games ahead of them this week. Friday, Garrison hosts Flasher, who not only is looking to be one of the top teams in the region but they have Payton Gabriellson, one of the top players in the state.
"It will be a tough test," said Mattheis, "but it will give us a good idea where we are at regionally."
Saturday, the Troop is on the road to Hazen, who is a solid defensive team and also has a top state player in Wyatt Carr.
"Hazel is athletic and solid defensively, so it will be a good test to see if our young guys can keep their composure with the pressure that Hazen will put on," Mattheis said.
Assessing this year’s squad, Mattheis said the coaching staff is going to rely on the younger players.
