Orono coach Barry Wohler and his Spartans should be tested against Marshall when the teams meet on Nov. 16. Photo by Chris Juhn
For many teams, the regular season's first week provides a good test to see what the off- and preseason work has accomplished.
There may be no greater early season test for Class 3A powerhouses Orono and Marshall than their nonconference matchup on Saturday.
The Spartans finished last season ranked No. 4 in the Class 3A coaches' poll and advanced to the state tournament, where they lost to Waconia in the quarterfinals.
The Tigers were upended by Mankato East 69-65 in the Section 2 championship and landed at No. 3 in the final rankings.
Marshall may have some added motivation entering this game. Two years ago, they were defeated by Orono in the state quarterfinals and ended up placing fourth.
The Tigers have recorded at least 24 wins in each of the last three seasons. In 2013, they went 29-3 and placed third in the Class 3A state tournament.
Given the recent history between these teams, this matchup will not only provide Orono and Marshall a look at how each stacks up against tough competition, but also is a great way to kick off the basketball season and is our Top Game of the Week.
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