The Wolves traveled to Reedsville Tuesday, Feb. 19 for regional action, but were defeated 75-49, ending their season.
A tough first quarter in which Manawa was outscored 27-4 put them in a deep deficit that they couldn’t overcome.
“We got out to a slow start because it was 27-4 after one,” said Head Coach Karl Morrin. “It could have been we go there late because of the snowstorm. The road from Appleton to Reedsville, Highway 10, was glare ice. It was a long haul getting there. But they were hot. I think they hit six threes in the first quarter. The rest of the game it was 48-45. If we have a better first quarter, we’re right in the game.”
The Wolves tried to make a game of it in the second quarter, outscoring Reedsville 19-11 in the quarter. The second half of the game was closer, but Reedsville outscored Manawa in both the third and fourth quarters.
Wesley Krauss led Manawa with 18 points, while Austin Dean chipped in with 12.
The Wolves ended their season with a 6-17 record.
“We had six wins which was more than the last two seasons,” Morrin said. “The players were happy with it, but they also knew that they left some stuff on the table that they could have had a couple more [wins].”
Morrin said the six wins didn’t achieve the teams’ goal.
“We set our goals high and actually that’s what you should do,” Morrin said. “If you settle for mediocrity you are going to get mediocrity. I was happy with how the players improved from day one to the end of the season. Their sportsmanship I thought for the whole year was outstanding. They worked hard and really that’s all you can ask for.
“We fell short, but that’s the way it goes. I think my players were giving me everything they had every night and things were good. There will be better days in Manawa basketball in the coming years.”