Sports News

MayPort-CG, the No. 1 seed in the District 3 boys basketball tourney starting today in Mayville, plays Griggs County Central at 1:30 p.m.
Hillsboro’s Burros play Thompson in the final first round game. Tip-off is expected to be around 6:45 p.m.
The tournament games were moved ahead to accommodate the Mayville State Comets men’s team and its post-season schedule.
Saturday’s semi-final round will also start earlier in the day.
Monday’s championship round, however, will follow the more typical schedule with the title game likely starting at 8 p.m.
The district is a double-elimination tourney.
Hatton-Northwood, No. 2 seed, and Central Valley, No. 7, are playing in Hillsboro’s bracket.
Today’s second game has Dakota Prairie and Larimore, Nos. 4 and 5 respectively, playing.
Thompson has thumped Hillsboro twice this year by scores of 63-41 and 51-29.
Still, coach Elliot Rotvold is convinced his Burros match up favorably against the Tommies.
The Burros will attempt to control the tempo of the game, according to Rotvold. “Having Jake (Olsen) handle their pressure will help.”
Olsen is returning to the Burro lineup after missing the last seven weeks with a broken foot.
Rotvold isn’t sure if he’ll start the veteran player, much depends on a still tender foot. And Olsen’s conditioning, said Rotvold.
Rest assured Jake Olsen will see playing time in the district tourney.
The pressure is on Thompson, according to Rotvold. The Tommies were the pre-season favorite. “They’re supposed to do well,” Rotvold explained.
The Burros are “excited” about making a post-season run.
Hillsboro has advanced to the region tourney the last six years.
“We’d like to get there again,” said Rotvold.
“We’re playing our best basketball at the right time. Hopefully, we can surprise some teams by having a good weekend.”