OrediggerHoops.com -- Oredigger Basketball News Archives
January 3, 2010
Men fall to Lethbridge, 67-66, in last-second nailbiter
By The Montana Standard Staff

HAVRE — A 3-point shot with three seconds left lifted Lethbridge to a 67-66 win over Montana Tech Saturday in a non-conference college men's basketball game played as part of the Montana State-Northern AmercInn Classic tournament at The Armory Gym on the MSU-Northern campus.

Randy Davis and Danhue Lawrence each connected for two 3-pointers to spark Lethbridge from outside and had the only four long shots downed by the Pronghorns. Montana Tech missed two free throws while leading 66-64 just seconds before the winning Pronghorn trey. The two-point Oredigger lead had come after a long second-half rally led by Brian Davison, who came off the bench to score 17 points, including a 5-for-7 performance from 3-point range.

Lethbridge had led 37-30 at halftime. "We had a horrible first half in which we shot 30 percent from the field and committed 15 turnovers," Montana Tech head coach Nate Larson said in a phone call after the game. "Then we decided to take care of the ball and hit some shots. We turned a 17-point deficit into a two-point lead.

"Brian Davison had been struggling (in recent games), but hit five 3s tonight and helped us cut into that big deficit."

Lawrence finished with 22 points to lead the Pronghorns. Davis wound up with 10 points, as did Wes Chapman. Davis and Chapman led Lethbridge on the boards with six apiece.

Dean Colbray scored 17 points to share Oredigger scoring honors with Davison. Kellen Hasquet finished with nine. Dirk Anderson had six rebounds.

"We had a chance at the end, but se didn't deserve to win the way we played," Larson said. "We had 22 turnovers (total). We need to cut our turnovers. We weren't the smartest team on the floor tonight, not the smartest with the basketball and that's why we lost."

Larson cited Shawn Brooks for "some great minutes," especially on defense. He added that Ivan Sljivar did a good job off the bench with some more great minutes.

The game wrapped up the non-conference part of the Montana Tech schedule. The Orediggers will return to action on Thursday by playing at Carroll College in Helena to launch Frontier Conference competition.

"We've shown we're very, very competitive," Larson said. "Our record (7-8) isn't indicative of our potential. The game tonight was a wakeup call. Our guys need to iron out. They're up-and-down. We need consistent production form everybody to be successful.

"But we'll get back to work on Monday and prepare for Carroll. This is a tight-knit group, the tightest I've had. I know they'll bounce back Monday ready to get better. They have positive attitudes and will be fine for Thursday.

LETHBRIDGE — Jeff Price 1-2 7-10 9, Randy Davis 4-6 2-2 12, Danhue Lawrence 7-16 6-8 22, Derek Waldner 3-3 0-0 6, Remington Stemler 3-4 0-0 6, Sean McCormick 0-0 0-0 0, Taylor Norum 0-2 0-0 0, Jeremy Stanley 0-2 0-0 0, Wes Chapman 5-7 0-0 10, Quinn Van Gaalen 0-3 2-2 2. Totals 23-45 17-23 67.

MONTANA TECH (7-8) — Kellen Hasquet 2-11 4-4 9, Shawn Brooks 3-3 1-2 7, Dirk Anderson 2-5 2-6 6, Dean Colbray 5-18 5-6 17, A.J. Paine 2-5 1-2 5, Josh Harris 0-0 0-0 0, Cole Conway 0-4 0-0 0, Brian Davison 6-8 0-0 17, Ivan Sljivar 2-6 0-0 5, Eric Schippers 0-3 0-0 0. Totals 22-63 13-20 66.

Halftime — Lethbridge 37, Montana Tech 30. 3-point goals — Lethbridge 4-16 (Davis 2-3, Lawrence 2-8, Norum 0-1, Stanley 0-1, Van Gaalen 0-3), Tech 9-26 (Hasquet 1-7, Colbray 2-9, Conway 0-2, Davison 5-7, Sljivar 1-1). Fouled out — Waldner, Stemler, Brooks. Total fouls — Lethbridge 25, Tech 20. Technicals — none. Rebounds — Lethbridge 34 (Davis 6, Chapman 6), Tech 37 (Anderson 6, Conway 5). Blocks — Lethbridge 2 (Stemler 2), Tech 0. Assists — Lethbridge 9 (Price 3, Lawrence 3), Tech 9 (Colbray 3, Paine 3). Steals — Lethbridge 10 (Lawrence 3), Tech 10 (Paine 3). Turnovers — Lethbridge 27, Tech 22.

Tech men win big
Orediggers stride past Augustana, 87-57
By The Montana Standard Staff

HAVRE — Montana Tech played a high-powered brand of basketball in the second half Friday to down Augustana College 87-57 at MSUNorthern's home tournament in Havre.

The Orediggers turned up the defensive intensity after trailing most of the first half to claim a three-point lead at intermission. And after that it was all Tech.

"In the first half we shot horribly," said Tech head coach Nate Larson, noting his squad was 0-for-13 in the first half and 3-for 25 for the game from beyond the arc. "The defensive intensity just wasn't there, but the guys came together and played a lot better in the second half." The Orediggers dominated the boards with a 51-35 rebounding advantage, while Tech's defense snagged 16 steals and forced 34 turnovers.

Dirk Anderson powered the Tech offense with 26 points, as the 'Diggers found an effective outlet for the ball.

"We just pounded it inside to Dirk," Larson said. "I'm proud of the guys.We played harder and smarter in the second half." Tech also got double-digit scoring shows from A.J. Paine, who had 16 points, five assists, four steals and eight rebounds.

Dean Colbray netted a dozen before fouling out, while Cole Conway came off the bench to notch 11 for Tech.

The Orediggers remain in Havre on Saturday to play their final non-conference game against Lethbridge University, a team Tech beat by two points at home early in the season.

"We need to come out sharp and play championship basketball," Larson said of the upcoming Frontier season." We're very capable of being in the top four and having a winning record in the Frontier.

We've just got to put all the phases together."

AUGUSTANA — Shayn Burney 1-2 1-1 3, Ryan Larsen 1-3 0-0 2, Joseph Knight 3-7 0-0 6, Peter Danielson 4-7 1-4 11, Tony Nguyen 0-0 0-0 0, David Shantz 0-1 0-1 0, Tyson Denhammer 2-6 0-0 4, David Ness 8-15 3-4 23, Kevin Barnes 1-4 0-0 3, Lee Martin 2-4 0-0 4, Larry McEwan 0-1 0-0 0, Landon Vaneck 0-0 0-0 0, Alex Butts 0-3 1-2 1, Mike McCorquindale 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 22-53 6-12 57

MONTANA TECH (7-8) — Kellen Hasquet 2-4 0- 0 5, Shawn Brooks 3-9 3-5 9, Dirk Anderson 9-13 8-10 26, Dean Colbray 5-14 2-3 12, A.J. Paine 6-13 3-4 16, Tanner Neumann 0-2 0-0 0, Josh Harris 0-0 0-0 0, Cole Conway 4-7 2-4 11, Brian Davison 0-7 0-1 0, Ivan Sljivar 3-8 0-0 6, Eric Schippers 1- 2 0-0 2, Hart Greenwood 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 33-79 18-27 87.

Halftime: MT 32-29. 3-point goals: AU 7-16 (Larsen 0-1, Danielson 2-2, Denhammer 0-3, Ness 4-6, Barnes 1-3, Martin 0-1), MT 3-25 (Hasquet 1- 3, Brooks 0-2, Colbray 0-7, Paine 1-3, Neumann 0- 2, Conway 1-3, Davison 0-4, Sljivar 0-1). Rebounds: AU 35 (Burney 6, Danielson 3, Schantz 3), MT 51 (Anderson 9, Paine 8, Sljivar 8, Brooks 6, Conway 6). Fouls: AU 21, MT 15. Fouled out: Colbray. Technical fouls: none. Assists: AU 6 (Barnes 4), MT 12 (Paine 5). Turnovers: AU 34, MT 15. Blocks: AU 0, MT 1 (Hasquet). Steals: AU 7, MT 16 (Paine 4, Hasquet 3, Brooks 3, Anderson 3).

December 29, 2009
Bengals clip Tech, 63-55

By The Montana Standard News Services

POCATELLO, Idaho — The Montana Tech Orediggers gave another Big Sky Conference team a run for its money on Monday. Ultimately, Idaho State was able to win 63-55 at home against the Oredigger men in an exhibition game.

With two minutes left in the game, Tech was within four points, 56-52. The Bengals rang up five straight points with help from two Oredigger turnovers to seal the deal.

Tech lost a 73-70 exhibition against Weber State in Utah earlier this month.

Montana Tech coach Nate Larson felt that missed shots and the two turnovers were the difference.

"The sad thing was we had the ball down four and we had two turnovers in a row," he said. "I'm very disappointed with the wide open shots we missed. If we want to compete for a top four spot in the conference we have to hit those wide open shots." Tech guard Dean Colbray went scoreless and sat much of the first half with a rolled ankle. He took the floor in the second half and scored 20 points.

Kellen Hasquet opened the game with a pair of 3-pointers and finished with 10 points.

Larson was happy to hold Idaho State to 63 points. The Bengals lost 59-53 against USC earlier this season.

Amorrow Morgan totaled 20 points to lead the Bengals. Broderick Gilchrest put up 14 in support.

Idaho State won the rebound battle 35-29.

Tech's bench outscored Idaho State 14-6.

MONTANA TECH (6-9) Kellen Hasquet 3-8 2-2 10, Shawn Brooks 1-4 0-0 2, Dirk Anderson 1-7 1-2 3, Dean Colbray 7-10 3-3 20, A.J. Paine 1-6 4-6 6, Tanner Neumann 0-0 0-0 0, Harris 0-0 0-0 0, Cole Conway 0-4 0-0 0, Brian Davison 2-7 0-0 4, Ivan Sljivar 3-4 0-0 6, Eric Schippers 2-3 0-0 4. Totals 20-53 10-13 55.

IDAHO ST. (3-10) Tatum 4-6 0-0 8, Monroe 3-7 6-7 12, Morgan 6-10 8-11 20, Gilchrest 4-14 5-8 14, Kilpatrick 1-4 0-0 3, Lacey 0-2 0-0 0, Baldwin 2-2 0-0 4, Carson 1-5 0-0 2. Totals 21-50 19-26 63.

Halftime-Idaho St. 29-22. 3-Point Goals-Montana Tech 5-25 (Colbray 3-6, Hasquet 2-6, Sljivar 0-1, Brooks 0-2, Paine 0-2, Conway 0-3, Davison 0-5), Idaho St. 2-9 (Kilpatrick 1-3, Gilchrest 1-5, Morgan 0-1). Fouled Out-Hasquet. Rebounds-Montana Tech 29 (Anderson 7), Idaho St. 35 (Monroe 17). Assists-Montana Tech 12 (Paine 3), Idaho St. 10 (Kilpatrick, Morgan 3). Total Fouls-Montana Tech 19, Idaho St. 13. A-1,737.


December 28, 2009
'Diggers challenge Big Sky Conference's Idaho State University

Montana Tech returns from the Christmas Break with a tough road game at Division 1 member Idaho State in historic Holt Arena. Tech is coming off a successful two game sweep over two Canadian teams over one week ago. The 'Digger offense averaged 87 points per game while giving up only 59 points over the weekend.

The Bengals, picked 3rd in the Big Sky pre-season coaches' poll, are 2-10 on the season but have played a brutal non-conference road. Playing well this past month, ISU lost by 10 points or less to Notre Dame, USC, and Oregon. Tech hopes to replicate its fine showing at fellow Big Sky Conference member Weber State on Dec. 9th when the 'Diggers lead nearly the entire game but eventually lost 73-70 to the defending Big Sky champions.

7:05PM Tip-off

Live Coverage: VIDEO | RADIO



December 10, 2009
Weber State slips by Montana Tech,73-70, in a nail biter

TECH-nically it was an exhibition game for the NAIA team from Butte, Montana. TECH-nically it was supposed to be a break in the schedule for Weber State men’s basketball team to get everyone playing time and relax after finals week, and TECH-nically, the Wildcats did win, but they had to use every ounce of energy they had to pull out the 73-70 over the visiting Montana Tech Orediggers Wednesday night in front of 3,383 in the Dee Events Center.

“Montana Tech came to play and they played with a purpose, with passion, with high energy and deserved to win the game,” said WSU head coach Randy Rahe. “We were out coached and out hustled all night and were lucky to win. I tip my hat to Coach Larson and his staff. They were the better team tonight.”

The game was scheduled to give the Wildcats a game at the conclusion of Fall semester finals week, and came on the heels of an 80-65 road win last Saturday at Sacramento State to begin Big Sky Conference play.

The Wildcats rolled to a quick 9-0 lead in the first three minutes of the game and appeared relaxed and ready to enjoy the evening. But the Orediggers fought back going on a 35-14 scoring run over the next 12 minutes to take a 35-23 lead with 5:49 left in the first half on a three-pointer by Dean Colbray.

Weber State gathered itself and responded with a 14-1 scoring run over the next three minutes to take a 37-36 lead with 1:27 remaining on a three-pointer by Nick Hansen. Montana Tech’s A.J. Paine then scored six unanswered points on a deep three-pointer and an old fashion three-point play, quickly giving the Orediggers a 42-37 lead. Damian Lillard’s three-ball with 12 seconds left brought the Wildcats to within two at 42-40 at that’s where it stood at halftime. It marked the eighth time in eight games this season that the Wildcats had trailed after the first 20 minutes.

The Orediggers, who hit 14-27 (.519) first half shots overall, and 7-13 (.538) from the three-point line, came firing on all cylinders to begin the second half and rolled to a 56-48 lead with 11:58 left. The Wildcats clawed their way back into the lead with 6:33 left on a lay up by Kyle Bullinger to complete a 12-3 scoring run.

Dean Colbray, a 6-1 guard who transferred to Montana Tech from Point Loma College, gave the Orediggers their last lead of the game at the 2:08 mark when he banked in a three-pointer from 25 feet making it 70-69. Damian Lillard put the Wildcats back on top with 1:44 to go, hitting two free throw.

Colbray had a chance to give Tech the lead back with 53 seconds left but he missed the front end of a one-and-one and Matt Washington grabbed one of his eight, second half rebounds. Bullinger misfired on a three-pointer from the left corner with 37 seconds left but Franklin Session grabbed the rebound and was fouled. He made one of two attempts giving the Wildcats a slim 72-70 lead.

The turning point came with 21 seconds left, and Tech with the ball for a potential go-ahead three point shot. Session stole the ball from Colbray near mid-court and was fouled. Session made the first free throw and missed the second but bolted from the free throw line to chase down his own miss. He was fouled again with eight seconds left but missed both free throws. Montana Tech called a 30 second time out looking for a game-tying three-pointer. The Wildcat defense kept perimeter pressure, forcing Brian Davison into a two-point attempt which caromed off the rim to end the game.

Matt Washington, a 6-7, 220 junior, gave WSU a big lift in the second half scoring seven points and grabbing eight rebounds. His nine points and 10 rebounds are each WSU single game career bests. Franklin Session scored a career high 17 points. The Orediggers paid close attention to Damian Lillard. Lillard came into the game with a Big Sky Conference leading 21.7 per game average but was held to a season low 13 points on just 3-7 shooting. He did, however, have six assists and made 6-7 shots from the line . Kyle Bullinger added 11 points.

Dean Colbray poured in a game high 25 points with 14 of them coming in the second half. Kellen Hasquet had 15 points but scored just three in the second half. A.J. Paine, a nifty point guard, had 12 points and Brian Davison chipped in with 10.

Weber State evened its 2009-10 record at 4-4. The Wildcats have now won three straight and will host instate rival Southern Utah University this coming Saturday, December 12 at 7:05 p.m. (MST) in the Dee Events Center.
November 30, 2009
The Master's College clips Orediggers 57-46

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — The Montana Tech men's basketball team lost 57-46 against Master's College Saturday night in Santa Clarita, Calif. The Orediggers were held to 15 points in the first half by poor shooting and 11 turnovers.

Tech fell to 4-7 with the loss, while Master's improved to 4-1. Master's was led in scoring by Joey Fuca with 16 points. He grabbed eight rebounds. The Mustangs also had double-digit scoring efforts by Raphael Harris (14), Leif Karlberg (13) and Thomas Millar (12). Only five players scored for the Mustangs.

Tech's Dean Colbray lit up the scoreboard for 18 points. He led the Oredigger defense with three steals and a block. Kellen Hasquet shot well, accumulating 13 points on 4-for-8 shooting from the field. Shawn Brooks finished with seven points and six rebounds. A.J. Paine tossed five assists. The Orediggers face Weber State in an exhibition game Dec. 9.

MONTANA TECH (4-7) Dean Colbray 8-17 0-0 18, Kellen Hasquet 4-8 3-5 13, A.J. Paine 1-5 0-0 2, Shawn Brooks 3-3 1-4 7, Dirk Anderson 0-4 3-4 3, Tanner Neumann 0-0 0-0 0, Brian Davison 0-7 0-0 0, Ivan Sljivar 0-2 0-0 0, Eric Schippers 1-4 1-2 3. Totals 17-50 7-15 46.

THE MASTER'S COLLEGE (4-1) Roy Walker 0-4 0-2 0, Leif Karlberg 5-10 0-0 13, Joey Fuca 5-12 5-7 16, Raphael Harris 7-14 0-2 14, Thomas Millar 4-9 2-3 12, Brandon Bibbins 0-1 0-0 0, Devin Dyer 0-3 2-2 2, Dnaiel Wrage 0-1 0-0 0, Richard LaFleur 0-0 0-0 0, Nathan Borunda 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 21-54 9-16 57. Halftime — Master's 27-15. 3-point goals — Tech 4-23 (Colbray 2-8, Hasquet 2-5, Davison 0-7, Anderson 0-1, Sljivar 0-2), Master's 6-18 (Karlberg 3-8, Milar 2-3, Fuca 1-4, Walker 0-3).

Rebounds — Tech 37 (Paine 8, Davison 8), Master's 37 (Fuca 8, Harris 8). Assists — Tech 8 (Paine 5), Master's 10 (Fuca 6). Steals — Tech 8 (Colbray 3, Brooks 2), Master's 9 (Millar 5). Blocks — Tech 2 (Colbray, Davison), Master's 3 (Harris 2). Turnovers — Tech 17, Master's 15. Fouls — Tech 13, Master's 13. Fouled out — none. Technicals — Master's (Harris).

 

November 28, 2009
'Diggers lose 2nd half lead, contest to #3 Fresno Pacific 80-71

Montana Tech dropped it's 2nd straight road game against a nationally ranked opponent in California when the 'Diggers couldn't hold a 5 point second half lead against Fresno Pacific. The Sunbirds depth and athleticism forced Tech into 17 turnovers overall and a 2nd half 12-0 run to regain the lead. Tech battled back and reduced the margin to 4 points in the last minute but Fresno hit free throws to extend the final margin to 9.

Tech finishes its 3-game road trip at The Master's College tonight. Tip-off is slated for 8:30 PM MST.
Live Coverage: STATS

November 24, 2009
Tech holds off Walla Walla to even record at 4-4

Sharpshooting and resilient defense helped the Montana Tech men's basketball team win its second game in as many days Sunday. The Orediggers triumphed 79-65 over the Walla Walla University Wolves at the HPER Complex with a strong second half effort.

Tech outscored Walla Walla 43-31 in the second 20 minutes of action. The victory improved the Orediggers to 4-4 on the season, while Walla Walla fell to 2-8. Tech finished 2-0 in the St. James Healthcare Copper Cage Classic, while Walla Walla went 0-2. Tech exacted revenge for the second time Sunday. Walla Walla claimed a 78-76 win at a tournament hosted by Eastern Oregon University earlier this year. Tech also lost to Eastern Oregon, but clipped the Mountaineers in Butte Saturday.

Against Walla Walla, the Orediggers shot 59 percent on 3-point attempts over the course of the game. Tech had a 46.8 field-goal percentage overall. The Wolves showed up a rejuvenated team after a deflating 96-58 loss against MSU-Northern on Saturday, in which the team shot 20 percent in the second half. Walla Walla shot 43.4 percent Sunday and held a 20-15 turnover advantage.

The Wolves aren't a big team, but Montana Tech head coach Nate Larson attests that they are difficult. "They're a tough team to guard, small and absolutely quick," Larson said. "They make you play ugly." The two teams traded leads for much of the first half with Tech ultimately taking a 36-34 lead into the locker room at halftime.

There was notable shooting by Walla Walla's Tristan Edwards as he hit back-to-back 3-pointers early on. Tech guard Dean Colbray responded finishing 4-for-5 from long distance in the first half. The best all-around performer of the half was Wolves point guard Gerard Dauphin. He ended the half with five boards, four assists, four points and four steals. Dauphin was called for a foul with four seconds left in the first half and added a technical to finish the half with three fouls. He lasted most of the game, but wasn't able to duplicate his first half numbers.

Tech ended the first half on a 7-0 run. The Orediggers poured it on in the second half holding the lead the remainder of the game after the 15-minute mark. The Wolves came within four points, 60-56, with a little more than five minutes left in the game. Shortly after that Tech went on a 10-1 run, eventually holding a 75-61 advantage. A.J. Paine, Kellen Hasquet and Dirk Anderson all hit free throws in the last couple minutes to add to the Orediggers' total.

Coach Larson said that his team has been working hard on both ends of the court lately. "We've been really working on our offense. We're instilling confidence in our guys," he said. "We're always stressing our defense, consistently keeping teams in the 60s." Tech's defense has kept opponents under 70 points in its last five games.

Offensively, Colbray came off of the bench to lead all scorers with 19 points Sunday. Brian Davison was also a big scorer in reserve with 14 points, including 4 of 6 shooting on 3-point attempts. Paine and Butte product Cole Conway both contributed 13 points. Paine finished with 11 assists and turned the ball over just twice. Larson believed it was the most assists in a game since he took over the program. "He did the best he could," Tech's coach said. "He's going to get better and better each game."

Colbray has proven to be a nice weapon off of the bench this season providing a spark for the Oredigger offense. "We're very pleased with Dean," Larson said. "He was huge in the first half shooting them out of the zone." Tech had a 10-rebound effort from center Dirk Anderson. Shawn Brooks and Kellen Hasquet both had five rebounds. Ivan Sljivar, Tanner Neumann and Eric Schippers all spelled Tech players with some minutes off of the bench. Tech had five players score in double digits on Saturday and four on Sunday. Larson liked the versatility his team showed on offense in its last two games.

"For us to be 4-4 after how we started the season shooting, we're pleased, but not content," he said. Walla Walla showed great improvement from Saturday night's performance. The Wolves had a 22-point effort by Mark Moore, including 15 in the second half. Edwards finished with 15 points.

The Orediggers won't get much of a rest as the team readies for a trip to California Monday afternoon. The Orediggers will take on Azusa Pacific on Wednesday. The Cougars were ranked in the NAIA's top 25 earlier this season. Tech will play the No. 3 team in the NAIA rankings, Fresno Pacific, on Friday. "We have a serious test coming up," Tech's Larson said. "We'll see if we're ready for that."
November 22, 2009
Tech trounces Mounties
By Pat Ryan - MT Standard

The Orediggers exacted a bit of revenge Saturday when the Montana Tech's men's basketball team handed Eastern Oregon University a 76-59 defeat during the nightcap game of the St. James Healthcare Copper Cage Classic at the HPER Complex. The Mounties defeated Tech 69-42 just two weeks ago in LaGrande, Ore., and Tech head coach Nate Larson said it was a very satisfying win for his program.

We shot the ball well tonight," Larson said, indicating his team's 50 percent mark from the field and the 67 percent clip Tech launched from the 3-point line. "We were firing on all cylinders in all phases of the game."

It was Tech's first win over EOU in the eight times they've played that Larson has been head coach.

Tech had five players score in twin figures, led by senior Dean Colbray's 15 points. Brian Davison came off the bench to drop in 13, and Dirk Anderson tallied a hard-earned dozen. Shawn Brooks was sharp at the free throw line near the end to post 11 and A.J. Paine added 10.

Tech has had tough luck with the ball falling through the net this season, and Saturday night's shooting turned out to be the factor Larson said it would be. The Orediggers pumped in 50 percent of their first-half shots, while the Mounties managed only 29 percent. That led to a 42-27 Oredigger edge at intermission, as Tech took an early 19-5 lead after the first eight minutes of play.

Cole Conway made a couple of 3-pointers in the first half to help ignite the run, but his defensive play was even more impressive.

"I was impressed with our defense," Larson said. "They do precisely what we ask and that's a testament to them and the type of team chemistry we have. We played a great basketball game against a great opponent."

With six minutes left in the game EOU attempted a comeback, pulling within 11 following 3-pointers by Thomas McCarthy and Jordan Lupfer-Graham, but that was as close as they got, even after fouling at every opportunity down the stretch.

"Everything looks good when the shots fall," Larson said. "It helps your defense when they don't have to worry about transition buckets. (EOU) is a great team with experienced upperclassmen and we took it to them defensively."

Tech is back on the court Sunday at 2 p.m. when the Orediggers host Walla Walla University in the finale of the Copper Cage Classic. Tech lost a 78-76 heartbreaker two weeks ago against Walla Walla at the Eastern Oregon tourney, and will be looking for a second helping of revenge.



November 15, 2009
'Diggers fall short vs. national ranked Yellowjackets
Boxscore

The Montana Tech men's basketball team almost defeated a Black Hills State team that advanced to the NAIA Final Four last season. The returning starters from the Final Four team fended off a second half Tech rally eventually winning 63-59 at the HPER Complex.

After taking the locker room with a 33-22 disadvantage at halftime, Tech coach Nate Larson liked how his team responded. "The second half was outstanding," he said. "We came back, battled well and showed some real grit." Black Hills State sealed the deal with two 3-pointers late in the game.

Tech's Brian Davison hit a couple of 3-pointers to keep Tech in it. Dean Colbray started the game on the bench with an ankle injury, but jumped in to scoer 16 points in 24 minutes of action. Tech's Dirk Anderson ended up with 12 points, while Kellen Hasquet put up 10.

The Yellowjackets had double digit scorers in Cain Atkinson (13), Craig Von Allman (12), Luke Enos (11) and Clay Pottoroff (11). Black Hill finished with a 45-36 rebounding advantage, despite Tech doing a nice job on the boards in the first half.

"One huge red flag for us was that we got outworked on the glass," Larson said. On the bright side, the Oredigger defense held a 15-9 turnover advantage at the end of the game. Ball control and tough defense helped Tech make it a contest. "I'm proud and excited about the potential of our defense," Larson said. "To hold that team to 63 points is an accomplishment in itself."

The Orediggers host the Copper Cage Classic starting next Friday. Tech plays Eastern Oregon on Saturday and Walla Walla on Sunday.
November 14, 2009
Tech men trounce Tech, 70-61; face Black Hills @ 5:00PM Saturday
By Bill Foley-MT Standard

MT Tech-SD Mines Boxscore

The Orediggers caught fire early in the second half Friday night, and the Montana Tech men's basketball team rode the heat wave to a 70-61 come-for-behind victory over South Dakota Tech at the HPER Complex.

Kellen Hasquet scored 11 of Montana Tech's first 15 points of the first half to lead the charge for the Orediggers, who were playing without leading scorer Dean Colbray. Colbray sprained an ankle in practice Thursday and sat out the game. Montana Tech coach Nate Larson said he wasn't sure if Colbray would play Saturday when the Orediggers take on No. 2-ranked Black Hills State at 5 p.m. at the HPER Complex.

Hasquet hit three straight 3-pointers and drained a pull-up 2-point jumper to open the half on a 15-6 run to tie the game at 45. "He's been really struggling," Larson said of the 6-foot-7 junior forward from Missoula. "He's finally getting into rhythm. He hits them in practice. They're finally falling for him in a game." Dirk Anderson, a 6-foot-7 junior post, scored 10 of his game-high 16 points in the second half. Shawn Brooks, a 6-5 senior, was huge on the glass for the Orediggers, pulling down eight of his game-high 10 rebounds after halftime

"Our defense was outstanding," Larson said. "We told them at half time we have to keep No. 10 (A.J. Trennephol and No. 4 (Robbie Fedor) in check. They had 10 and 12 at halftime. That's what they had at the end of the game. "In the grand scheme of things, our defense won it."The H ard rockers (3-2), who beat defending NAIA champion Rocky Mountain College earlier this season, led 39-30 at halftime.

After Hasquet's initial charge, the Orediggers trailed only three times — never by more than 2 points. Brooks hit one of two free throws with 7 minutes, 23 seconds left in the second half to put Montana Tech up for good at 54-53. A nifty reverse layup by Brooks with 1:30 to play put the Orediggers in control at 62-58. Free throws and key rebounding led by Brooks iced the victory. "One huge key was Shawn Brooks," Larson said. "He had some huge defensive rebounds for us when we needed some stops." Sophomore point guard A.J. Paine scored 11 points to go along with five assists. Tanner Neumann came off the bench to score eight points, while Brian Davison scored seven and Brooks tossed in six. Neumann scored five of his points late in the first half to keep the game close. "Tanner Neumann, what can you say?" Larson said. "He sparked us in the first half."

The win lifted the Orediggers, who shot 52 percent from the floor in the second half, to 2-3, and it stopped a three-game losing streak. The win also kept Tech perfect on the Kelvin Sampson Court. "The lid finally came off the hoop," Larson said. "To see us execute and hit shots is very rewarding — not only for us (coaches) but for the kids. It shows the hard work is paying off."

The Hardrockers head to Billings for another showdown with Rocky on Saturday. Tech, meanwhile, looks to go 3-0 at home. Larson said he likes his chances against the high-powered Yellowjackets. "We have confidence going in," Larson said. "Especially on the home court. Especially after this."

By Bill Foley - 11/14/2009

The Orediggers caught fire early in the second half Friday night, and the Montana Tech men's basketball team rode the heat wave to a 70-61 come-for-behind victory over South Dakota Tech at the HPER Complex.

Kellen Hasquet scored 11 of Montana Tech's first 15 points of the first half to lead the charge for the Orediggers, who were playing without leading scorer Dean Colbray.

Colbray sprained an ankle in practice Thursday and sat out the game.

Montana Tech coach Nate Larson said he wasn't sure if Colbray would play Saturday when the Orediggers take on No. 2-ranked Black Hills State at 5 p.m. at the HPER Complex.

Hasquet hit three straight 3-pointers and drained a pull-up 2-point jumper to open the half on a 15-6 run to tie the game at 45.

"He's been really struggling," Larson said of the 6-foot-7 junior forward from Missoula. "He's finally getting into rhythm. He hits them in practice. They're finally falling for him in a game." Dirk Anderson, a 6-foot-7 junior post, scored 10 of his game-high 16 points in the second half.

Shawn Brooks, a 6-5 freshman, was huge on the glass for the Orediggers, pulling down eight of his game-high 10 rebounds after halftime.

"Our defense was outstanding," Larson said. "We told them at half time we have to keep No. 10 (A.J. Trennephol and No. 4 (Robbie Fedor) in check. They had 10 and 12 at halftime. That's what they had at the end of the game.

"In the grand scheme of things, our defense won it." The Hard rockers (3-2), who beat defending NAIA champion Rocky Mountain College earlier this season, led 39-30 at halftime.

After Hasquet's initial charge, the Orediggers trailed only three times — never by more than 2 points.

Brooks hit one of two free throws with 7 minutes, 23 seconds left in the second half to put Montana Tech up for good at 54-53.

A nifty reverse layup by Brooks with 1:30 to play put the Orediggers in control at 62-58.

Free throws and key rebounding led by Brooks iced the victory.

"One huge key was Shawn Brooks," Larson said. "He had some huge defensive rebounds for us when we needed some stops." Sophomore point guard A.J. Paine scored 11 points to go along with five assists. Tanner Neumann came off the bench to score eight points, while Brian Davison scored seven and Brooks tossed in six.

Neumann scored five of his points late in the first half to keep the game close.

"Tanner Neumann, what can you say?" Larson said. "He sparked us in the first half." The win lifted the Orediggers, who shot 52 percent from the floor in the second half, to 2-3, and it stopped a three-game losing streak. The win also kept Tech perfect on the Kelvin Sampson Court.

"The lid finally came off the hoop," Larson said. "To see us execute and hit shots is very rewarding — not only for us (coaches) but for the kids. It shows the hard work is paying off." The Hardrockers head to Billings for another showdown with Rocky on Saturday.

Tech, meanwhile, looks to go 3-0 at home.

Larson said he likes his chances against the high-powered Yellowjackets.

"We have confidence going in," Larson said. "Especially on the home court. Especially after this." SD TECH (3-2) — Kyle Turpin 2-5 4-4 8, Kyle Doerr 3-8 1-2 7, Scott May 2-4 0-0 4, Robbie Fedor 4-13 0-1 12, Nathan Jacobson 2-3 4-5 8, Tommy Smith 0-3 1-2 12, A.J. Trennopohl 2-8 4-4 10, Trevor Larson 1-3 0-0 2, Carl Johnson 2-2 1-2 5, Jordan Schmitz 1-3 2-2 4. Totals 19-52 17-22 61.

MONTANA TECH (2-3) — Kellen Hasquett 6-14 0-0 15, Dirk Anderson 6-9 4-4 16, Cole Conway 2-4 0-1 5, Brian Davison 3-7 0-0 5, A.J. Paine 4-11 3-4 11, Tanner Neumann 3-3 0-0 8, Josh Harris 0-0 0-0 0, Ivan Sljivar 0-1 0-0 0, Shawn Brooks 2-4 2-4 6, Eric Schippers 1-2 0-0 2, Hart Greenwood 0-0 0-1 0. Totals 27-55 9-14 70.

Halftime — SDT 39-30. 3-point goals — SDT 6-21 (Doerr 0-2, Fedor 4-11, Jacobson 0-1, Trennepohl 2-6, Larson 0-1), MT 7-20 (Hasquet 3-8, Conway 1-3, Davison 1-5, Paine 0-2, Neumann 2-2). Rebounds — SDT 35 (Doerr 5, Trennepohl 5, Johnson 5), MT 34 (Brooks 10). Assists — SDT 10 (May 3, Fedor 3), MT 1 (Paine 5). Steals — SDT 7 (Jacobson 3), MT 6 (Hasquet 2, Paine 2). Blocks — SDT 1 (Larson), MT 3 (Anderson 2, Davison 1). Turnovers — SDT 16, MT.15 Fouls — SDT 18, MT 19. Fouled out — Conway. Technicals — none.

By Bill Foley - 11/14/2009

The Orediggers caught fire early in the second half Friday night, and the Montana Tech men's basketball team rode the heat wave to a 70-61 come-for-behind victory over South Dakota Tech at the HPER Complex.

Kellen Hasquet scored 11 of Montana Tech's first 15 points of the first half to lead the charge for the Orediggers, who were playing without leading scorer Dean Colbray.

Colbray sprained an ankle in practice Thursday and sat out the game.

Montana Tech coach Nate Larson said he wasn't sure if Colbray would play Saturday when the Orediggers take on No. 2-ranked Black Hills State at 5 p.m. at the HPER Complex.

Hasquet hit three straight 3-pointers and drained a pull-up 2-point jumper to open the half on a 15-6 run to tie the game at 45.

"He's been really struggling," Larson said of the 6-foot-7 junior forward from Missoula. "He's finally getting into rhythm. He hits them in practice. They're finally falling for him in a game." Dirk Anderson, a 6-foot-7 junior post, scored 10 of his game-high 16 points in the second half.

Shawn Brooks, a 6-5 freshman, was huge on the glass for the Orediggers, pulling down eight of his game-high 10 rebounds after halftime.

"Our defense was outstanding," Larson said. "We told them at half time we have to keep No. 10 (A.J. Trennephol and No. 4 (Robbie Fedor) in check. They had 10 and 12 at halftime. That's what they had at the end of the game.

"In the grand scheme of things, our defense won it." The Hard rockers (3-2), who beat defending NAIA champion Rocky Mountain College earlier this season, led 39-30 at halftime.

After Hasquet's initial charge, the Orediggers trailed only three times — never by more than 2 points.

Brooks hit one of two free throws with 7 minutes, 23 seconds left in the second half to put Montana Tech up for good at 54-53.

A nifty reverse layup by Brooks with 1:30 to play put the Orediggers in control at 62-58.

Free throws and key rebounding led by Brooks iced the victory.

"One huge key was Shawn Brooks," Larson said. "He had some huge defensive rebounds for us when we needed some stops." Sophomore point guard A.J. Paine scored 11 points to go along with five assists. Tanner Neumann came off the bench to score eight points, while Brian Davison scored seven and Brooks tossed in six.

Neumann scored five of his points late in the first half to keep the game close.

"Tanner Neumann, what can you say?" Larson said. "He sparked us in the first half." The win lifted the Orediggers, who shot 52 percent from the floor in the second half, to 2-3, and it stopped a three-game losing streak. The win also kept Tech perfect on the Kelvin Sampson Court.

"The lid finally came off the hoop," Larson said. "To see us execute and hit shots is very rewarding — not only for us (coaches) but for the kids. It shows the hard work is paying off." The Hardrockers head to Billings for another showdown with Rocky on Saturday.

Tech, meanwhile, looks to go 3-0 at home.

Larson said he likes his chances against the high-powered Yellowjackets.

"We have confidence going in," Larson said. "Especially on the home court. Especially after this." SD TECH (3-2) — Kyle Turpin 2-5 4-4 8, Kyle Doerr 3-8 1-2 7, Scott May 2-4 0-0 4, Robbie Fedor 4-13 0-1 12, Nathan Jacobson 2-3 4-5 8, Tommy Smith 0-3 1-2 12, A.J. Trennopohl 2-8 4-4 10, Trevor Larson 1-3 0-0 2, Carl Johnson 2-2 1-2 5, Jordan Schmitz 1-3 2-2 4. Totals 19-52 17-22 61.

MONTANA TECH (2-3) — Kellen Hasquett 6-14 0-0 15, Dirk Anderson 6-9 4-4 16, Cole Conway 2-4 0-1 5, Brian Davison 3-7 0-0 5, A.J. Paine 4-11 3-4 11, Tanner Neumann 3-3 0-0 8, Josh Harris 0-0 0-0 0, Ivan Sljivar 0-1 0-0 0, Shawn Brooks 2-4 2-4 6, Eric Schippers 1-2 0-0 2, Hart Greenwood 0-0 0-1 0. Totals 27-55 9-14 70.

Halftime — SDT 39-30. 3-point goals — SDT 6-21 (Doerr 0-2, Fedor 4-11, Jacobson 0-1, Trennepohl 2-6, Larson 0-1), MT 7-20 (Hasquet 3-8, Conway 1-3, Davison 1-5, Paine 0-2, Neumann 2-2). Rebounds — SDT 35 (Doerr 5, Trennepohl 5, Johnson 5), MT 34 (Brooks 10). Assists — SDT 10 (May 3, Fedor 3), MT 1 (Paine 5). Steals — SDT 7 (Jacobson 3), MT 6 (Hasquet 2, Paine 2). Blocks — SDT 1 (Larson), MT 3 (Anderson 2, Davison 1). Turnovers — SDT 16, MT.15 Fouls — SDT 18, MT 19. Fouled out — Conway. Technicals — none.

 October 31, 2009
Tech loses late lead, contest at Northwest University

 

Boxscore

KIRKLAND, Wash. - The NU Eagles came back from a six point deficit with 6 minutes to go in the game to grind out a 64-59 win over Montana Tech tonight in non-conference play in the Pavilion.

After the Eagles took a 33-25 lead at the half, the Orediggers scored the first 8 points of the second half to tie the game at 33. With the score knotted up at 34 a piece, Northwest U. would go on a 6-2 run to pull ahead, 40-36, capped off by a Blake Solomon jumper. Tech would then go on a 5-0 run of their own to take a 41-40 lead on Dirk Anderson's shot. After two ties and two lead changes, the Orediggers would build a 51-45 lead with 6:43 left in the game. Back would come the Eagles on a 6-0 run on two free throws by Greg Peters, a Skillman jumper after a Blake Solomon steal and a lay-up by the sophomore Skillman.

NU's Stedman Richardson would put the Eagles ahead for good after making one of two free throws (52-21). The Eagles would lead 58-51 with 54 seconds to go, but 3 for 7 shooting from the charity stripe would allow Tech to pull to within 2 (60-58) with 10 seconds to go. With NU up by 3 points (62-59) with 10 seconds to go, Tyson Christie would clinch the victory with his two free throws.

Tech was whistled for 27 team fouls, compared to 19 for Northwest, which allowed NU to make 17 of 25 free throws for the game. The 'Diggers shot a paltry 7 of 18 from the FT line including 6 of 16 in the 2nd half. Tech's defense in the 2nd half shined as they held the Eagles to 35% shooting overall and outscored NU 34 to 31. Guards Dean Colbray and Brian Davison both scored 18 points on the evening. Dirk Anderson chipped in 7 points and Kellen Hasquet added 6 points and 7 rebounds.

The 'Diggers hit the road again next weekend for the Quinn Classic in La Grande, OR. Tech faces Walla Walla University on Friday, Nov. 6th @ 3:00 PM MST, and host Eastern Oregon University on Saturday, Nov. 7th @ 9:00 PM MST.
October 25, 2009
Tech outlast Pronghorns 83-81
The Orediggers used a solid team effort & some key rebounding to knock off the University of Lethbridge 83-81 in a non-conference men's basketball game Saturday night at the HPER Complex.
A 15 foot jumper by Kellen Hasquet and late-game rebounding by Shawn Brooks keyed the win over a very tough Pronghorn ball-club. Lethbridge split with Montana-Western last weekend in Dillon and possesses outstanding size and athletes.
Butte High product Cole Conway, a sophomore, scored 14 of his game-high 20 points in the first half. Dirk Anderson battled for 13 points & 7 rebounds, while Hasquet and Dean Colbray scored 12.
October 2, 2009
Montana Tech Basketball Version 2009.10
The equation may be different this season for the Montana Tech men’s basketball program, but the key variables will remain the same: toughness, teamwork, and a yearning hunger for success. The Orediggers welcome four transfer and two high school recruits to eight returning players in forming the 14 student-athlete roster. Tech hopes the maturing and experienced returners coupled with impact transfers will ensure that the ‘Diggers are ‘Ready to Rise’ to its first winning season and a Frontier Conference championship in over 10 years.
Last Updated on Thursday, 28 January 2010 20:28