Pioneers determined to break out of rough patch

Going 1-2 in three games last week, the Ten Sleep Pioneers basketball team has lost four of their last five games but focused on breaking out of this slump.

The Pioneers (5-8) lost to the Shoshoni JV on Jan. 25, beat the Worland freshman team on Jan. 26 but lost to 1A Northwest rival Riverside 48-35 on Jan. 27.

"Although we lost to Shoshoni, we had seven players put points on the board in both games [against Shoshoni and Worland]," said TSHS boys basketball coach Chad Fox. "I think this is a good indication of how we are playing as a team. We have also struggled with sickness and injury, which has kept some of our players out. In the Worland game, we rebounded well and had a lot of assists and steals. It is good to see our guys moving the ball and finding the open player."

Against Riverside, the Pioneers had moments against the Rebels and cut into the deficit in the second half. Defensively, the team plays tough and is among the top defenses in 1A. Offensively, the team needs to find their rhythm to match their defensive play.

"After watching film on that game, I think the guys should know they are closer than it may seem. If we can make a few more easy shots and a few more free throws, these games would look very different. Our defense is doing very well - we are second in the state in Team Defense - which will carry us through some tough stretches," said Fox.

Six games remain on the Pioneers regular season schedule, four of which are home games. The team hits the road this week with games at Burlington tonight at 7 p.m. and at Dubois on Saturday at 7 p.m.

Taking advantage of the upcoming four-game homestand could be what the Pioneers need to find their breakthrough and build momentum heading into the postseason.

"It is always good to play at home. We will shoot better and be more relaxed. I think it is a good opportunity to play our game and be competitive," said Fox.