Keota knocks out North Tama in district second round

KEOTA — Keota picked up a Class 1A Substate 6 second round victory over North Tama on Thursday, 87-62.

Despite the 25 point win, it wasn’t an easy contest early on for the No. 6 ranked Eagles.

Following the opening eight minutes, the Eagles trailed the Redhawks 20-17. Keota began to turn the tide though as it jumped in front, 37-31, just before the half.

In all, the Eagles outscored the Redhawks 20-11 through the second quarter. Keota kept its foot on the gas the rest of the way.

Keota went on to outscore North Tama 52-31 in the second half, 31-21 in the third quarter and 21-10 in the fourth.

Evan Vittetoe led the Eagles with 28 points on an efficient 13-for-15 from the field. Cole Kindred followed with 21 points, nine rebounds and six assists. Aiden McGuire added 12 points as well as Sawyer Stout. Billie Kindred finished with six. Chase Haifley had five and Tanner Waterhouse three.

The Eagles dominated the glass in the victory. Keota pulled down 46 rebounds to the Redhawks 26.

Keota, now 23-0, will take on Gladbrook-Reinbeck (19-5) in the 1A Region 6 semifinal.