The Becker Bulldog boys basketball team moved to 5-0 on the season last Friday with an impressive 83-49 win over Delano.
Once again, it was the Bulldogs’ defensive identity that paved the path to victory.
Coming into the game, Becker owned the top-ranked defense in both the conference and the section, despite giving up 71 points in their previous outing. That point of emphasis was clear from the opening tip. “Our priority coming in was winning on defense and holding Delano under 60 points,” Head Coach Cory Nuest said.
Becker dominated the glass, out-rebounding the Tigers by 11, and continued the team’s unselfish offensive approach with 28 assists on the night.
Nathan Weiss led the Bulldogs with another strong all-around performance, finishing with 23 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Isiah Boyer continued to make great decisions with the basketball, contributing 13 points and five assists while keeping the offense organized. Troy Nuest remained highly efficient, scoring 14 points and adding six assists.
Inside, Saul Kreft was a force on the boards, pulling down 12 rebounds, including five on the offensive end, creating extra possessions and wearing down Delano’s front line. Bryce Paumen recorded another double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Nolan Burau provided a spark off the bench with seven points, four rebounds, and three assists; meanwhile, Owen Reinking added eight points, two rebounds, and two assists in quality minutes.
“This was a great team win against a quality program,” Nuest said. “We played Becker basketball — win on defense, rebound like dawgs, and share the ball. I’m proud of our guys as we head into Christmas break.”
Stats: Nathan Weiss – 23 points, five rebounds, five assists; Troy Nuest – 14 points, six assits, three steals; Isiah Boyer – 13 pts, five assists; Bryce Paumen – 11 pts, 11 rebs, four assists; Saul Kreft – 12 rebs (five offensive rebounds), four points; Owen Reinking – eight points, two rebounds, two assists; Nolan Burau – seven points, four rebounds, three assists.
