In Day 3’s first game in the 5th place sub-bracket, the Illini Bluffs Tigers took the victory over the Farmers of Farmington by a score of 54-37. Illini Bluffs advances to the 5th place game for the first time since 2016, when they defeated Illini West to grab the 5th Place trophy that year. The score was tied 21-21 at halftime, following a three pointer at the 1st half buzzer by Farmington’s Jack Gronewold. However, Bluffs scored the first eight points of the second half and never gave the lead back to Farmington. The Tigers size led to an advantage in points in the paint by a count of 32-8.
The Tigers were led by Hank Alvey, who had a game-highs with 26 points and 12 rebounds, and three blocks. Toby Cooper also finished in double figures with 13 points. Cooper and Wyatt Hendel each grabbed five rebounds. Devon White had a game-high five assists and four steals. Free throws have been a dessert during the tournament across the board, but Bluffs did hit 6-of-7 in this game. Bluffs led by as many as 20 in this game.
Farmington’s leading scorer was Jack Gronewold, who had 14 points. Keauntrey Barnes was second on the team with nine points, but did lead the team with seven rebounds. Barnes and Owen Morse tied for the team-high with four assists.
Illini Bluffs advances to the 5th Place game to face the winner of Monmouth-Roseville and A-Town, where the winner will receive a trophy. That contest is Game 24, tonight at 6:30pm.
Box Score
Illini Bluffs Info
Farmington Info
Chris Derry
December 30, 2023