TRURO — Interstate 35’s boys basketball team started off well in Thursday’s nonconference tussle against Van Meter.
Struggles in the second quarter proved to be the Roadrunners’ undoing.
Van Meter outscored Interstate 35 24-7 in the second eight minutes, leading to a 74-69 win.
Interstate 35 had a good start. Richie Griglione had 12 points in the opening quarter.
“It was a good first quarter,” said Interstate 35 coach Nate Rankin. “Richie really hit some shots.”
The good feelings disappeared in the second quarter. Interstate 35 went cold from the floor and the free throw line. Van Meter’s offense woke up both inside and outside.
“We got tight,” Rankin said. “We forced some things. We didn’t settle in and do the things we do well.”
The education process continued for Rankin’s young team.
“Central Decatur we grew up. This game we grew up some more,” Rankin said. “We’ve got to learn from those, get better. We’re not young anymore.”
Van Meter led 38-25 at halftime.
Interstate 35 chipped into the lead in the third. The Bulldogs took a 50-43 edge into the final eight minutes.
Van Meter pushed the lead to 70-58 with a minute to go.
Interstate 35 hit several shots in the final minute, trimming the lead to 71-67 with 27 seconds left and the Roadrunners had the ball. Interstate 35s shot went off line and Van Meter held on.
The Roadrunners were hampered by 11 missed free throws in the first half.
“Sometimes the ball bounces the way it does,” Rankin said.
UP NEXT — Interstate 35 is back on the court on Jan. 3 hosting Southeast Warren in Pride of Iowa Conference play.
Rankin likes where the team is at heading into the Christmas break.
“We’ll be there there,” Rankin said. “There’s talent in this locker room,” Rankin said. “The good thing is we’re going to be where we need to be.”