Duwa Leads Keota to Win at NM

NEW SHARON – Brady Duwa just played his game on both ends of the floor Friday – and it almost was not enough. Keota and North Mahaska were both undefeated in South Iowa Cedar League play entering the game but it was Duwa’s 17 points and a late block that helped preserve a 51-50 victory at New Sharon.

The contest was the first that an unlimited number of fans were allowed into the game and they were not disappointed. The teams played within a few points of each other with the lead changing hand several times until the final minutes. Free throws put Keota up 49-43 with 1 minute 56 seconds to play. NM senior Addy Bollman hit a short jumper and sophomore Lane Harmon rained in a 3-pointer to pull within one. Carson Sprouse, who had a game-high 19 points, hit a pair of free throws with 27 seconds left to play for a 51-48 lead.

Keota was playing a ball control game, which forced the Warhawks to foul but the Eagles had trouble hitting the free shots. Following a timeout by NM most everyone knew Bollman likely would get the ball for a 3-point attempt. With 17.7 seconds left he got the ball and Duwa timed the jump and swatted the ball away. NM sophomore Braden Steel was able to sink a layup with a second left on the clock that left the Warhawks short.

“That block by Brady was a big play,” said Keota coach Dan Stout. “Brady Duwa came ready to play tonight. That was a huge defensive stop. We were playing a defensive game.”

Keota was aided in the final seconds with offensive rebounds on the missed free throws, which allowed the Eagle to take more time off the clock and remain in control of the ball.

“We got those key rebounds when we missed some free throws and they really helped us,” said Stout.

Keota had just five offensive rebounds but senior Bryce Greiner grabbed a pair of those off missed free throws. Duwa and senior Luke Hammen each grabbed seven boards. Duwa also blocked a shot and recorded five steals.

Both teams will look at the game and see the contest was won and lost at the free throw line. Keota (10-0) went 13-for-23 at the line while NM (7-2) was 8-of-17.

The Eagles host HLV Tuesday before heading to Montezuma for another challenge on Friday.