By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post Sports
HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs made a season-high 11 three-pointers and scored a season-high 76 points as they downed Smith Center Tuesday 76-36, at Al Billinger Fieldhouse to advance to the semifinals of the Mid-Continent League tournament.
The first three minutes of the game contained four ties and six lead changes before the Monarchs took the lead for good on five straight points by Grant and Ian Nehls. The Ian Nehls three-pointer gave the Monarchs a 15-10 lead, and they never trailed again.
With TMP (7-4, 4-0 MCL) leading 18-15, Will Eck connected on a three-pointer to close out the first quarter, giving the Monarchs a 21-15 lead.
TMP scored 10 straight to open the second half, and they went on to outscore Smith Center 46-14 for the second and third quarters for a 67-29 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
With the continuous clock in the fourth quarter, TMP claimed the 76-36 victory.
TMP’s Ty Schmeidler led all scorers with 24 points. Jacob Seib added 15 points.
The Monarchs will take on Phillipsburg in the second boys semifinal game on Friday in Plainville. The Panthers edged past Russell 74-72.
The top half of the bracket will feature Trego against Plainville.
You can find the updated MCL bracket HERE.