The Dubuque Wahlert boys basketball team showcased its defensive potential in the second half, securing a 69-42 win over city rival Dubuque Hempstead on Tuesday night at Colbert-Delany Court. The victory improved Wahlert’s record to 5-2 and further solidified their position as the Iowa Class 3A No. 4-ranked team.
Wahlert turned a five-point halftime lead into a commanding win with a 43-21 surge in the second half. The Golden Eagles focused on tightening their defense and played with greater patience on offense, leading to easier scoring opportunities after a shaky first half.
“We weren’t happy with our defense in the first half,” said Wahlert coach Tom English. “At halftime, we discussed our intensity, and we were much better in the second half. We forced turnovers and did a much better job defensively. We have to learn to play defense for four quarters, but I’m proud of the second half effort.”
The game began with early struggles for Hempstead. They turned the ball over on their first three possessions, which allowed Wahlert to jump out to a quick 6-0 lead. Hempstead struggled against the height advantage of Will Richardson and Ethan Meyer, who combined for five baskets in the first quarter. Reed Strohmeyer scored all of the Mustangs’ nine points, as Wahlert led 14-9 after one.
Wahlert extended its lead to 25-17 with 3:32 remaining in the first half on a basket by Richardson, but the Eagles only managed one more point before the break. Hempstead capitalized on this lull, with Strohmeyer scoring 13 points, including two free throws and a basket from Jordan Plummer, cutting the Wahlert lead to 25-21 at halftime.
The second half saw a shift in momentum. Wahlert’s defense became more aggressive, forcing six turnovers in Hempstead’s first eight possessions. This led to a 13-3 run, pushing the lead to 39-25. Despite a last-second 3-pointer by Dylan Wernimont, which brought the score to 47-35, Wahlert maintained control.
The Eagles completely pulled away in the fourth quarter with a 22-3 run. Connor Walsh’s layup 10 seconds into the period ignited the run, and Wahlert hit eight consecutive shots during the stretch to take a commanding 68-39 lead. Hempstead’s only basket during the run came from Strohmeyer on a steal and layup.
Wahlert’s balanced offense was key, with five players reaching double figures. Meyer led the team with 18 points, including 12 in the second half. Richardson and Luke Welbes each contributed 13 points, while Walsh and Adam Sigwarth added 10 points apiece.
“We have a lot of good teammates,” said Meyer. “The second half, everyone stepped up. My shot wasn’t falling in the first half, so I used my athleticism to get to the rim. Everyone here can make shots, and that’s a great luxury.”
Strohmeyer was the lone bright spot for Hempstead, scoring 18 points despite constant defensive pressure from Wahlert. Wernimont was the Mustangs’ second-leading scorer with six points.
Coach English expressed satisfaction with the win, regardless of the rivalry aspect. “This conference (MVC) is brutal, so every win is important. We’re happy to get this one tonight.”
Wahlert will look to build on this defensive effort as they continue their season.
Related Topics
- What Does Moneyline Mean in Basketball Betting
- Why Do People like Watching Basketball
- Where Is the PAC 12 Basketball Tournament Being Played
