The Highland Rams faced the Woods Cross Wildcats on their home court tonight in an intense rivalry. It was tight throughout the first half, neither team securing more than a three-point lead. The score at the end of the first quarter was 13-13, and the score at the end of the half was 22-22. The Rams’ secure spot in the state tournament next week means nothing out on the court – they work hard with a determination to win every game they have the honor to play.

Although Highland did not require a victory to go to state, it was very important to the team. It was a way to gain momentum going into the tournament, as well as more time to spend united as a team before the season ends. The players understand that their time is running out, and that the seniors will soon be moving on.

“We are insanely close as a team and as a family and knowing our time with Max, Brandon, Bubs, Spencer and Brandon is limited makes every last second more important,” Junior Ryan Lambson said.

Lambson is savoring every second, and so is Senior Spencer Moncur. Moncur understands the season is winding down, and he and the other seniors want to relish these last games more than ever.

Moncur as well as Senior Brandon Warr stepped up to lead their team tonight in the final minutes of the close game. The score was tied yet again with 2:14 left in the game. Moncur drove down and scored two points for his team, putting them in the lead. He went up again for a layup and was fouled, then made his first free throw. Junior Rick Schmidt scored, sending the team into a more comfortable lead at 58-53. With 16 seconds left Senior Brandon Warr was fouled and made his second shot. Highland went on to win the game 61-55.

In a close contest such as this one, every point matters, which means free throws are essential. Luckily, the team has emphasized them all season.

“It’s all about repetition. I really just try to clear my head and let my muscle memory kick in, because if you think too much that’s when you start missing,” Moncur said.

The Highland Rams will head up to Weber State on Tuesday to play Orem in the state tournament, and this game was just the confidence boost they needed.