From the game’s opening minutes Friday night it was easy to see that Shakopee’s players had a great understanding of one another on the court.
The Sabers, ranked No. 6 in Class 4A by Minnesota Basketball News, attacked and defended as a unit, their play making things difficult for Rosemount, which was held to just 29 points in the first half.
Shakopee senior forward Charlie Katona proved to be a standout force. He was able to get to whatever spot he wanted and found teammates when it seemed passing was the right play to make. The Irish (5-3, 0-2) had no answer for Katona, as he put up a commanding 35 points in the Sabers’ 84-71 victory at Rosemount High School.
The triumph erased a two-game skid for the Sabers, and gave them a coveted win against a South Suburban Conference opponent.
Katona believes the love the Shakopee (7-2, 2-0) players have for each other is what makes the team special. He works hard to continue building that into the Sabers’ identity.
Charlie Katona powered Shakopee to a 84-71 win over South Suburban Conference rival Rosemount on Friday night at Rosemount High School, ending the Sabers’ two-game skid.
The Sabers (7-2, 2-0) started the game with efficient scoring and defensive stops to build a 48-29 lead to end the first half.
Katona, a senior forward who is committed to Minnesota Duluth, scored 20 of his 35 points in the first half for Shakopee, ranked No. 6 in Class 4A by Minnesota Basketball News. Teammate Caleb Druvenga, a senior guard, added 15 points.
Rosemount (5-3, 0-2) got into more of a rhythm in the second half, scoring 42 points, including seven three-pointers. Sophomore guard Caleb Siwek led Rosemount in scoring with 28 points.
With Friday’s loss, the Irish have been defeated in three straight games after starting the season 5-0.
The MN Basketball Hub poll is for entertainment purposes only.