Class B No. 3 Bearcats tip off "Shootout" at McCook

McCOOK, Neb. -- Wow, McCook basketball fans can't ask for a more entertaining visitor to start this weekend's "East-West Shootout".

The Class B No. 3 Scottsbluff Bearcats (17-2 record) invade tonight, just a few nights after scoring 106 points during their 106-72 victory over Sidney.

Scottsbluff reached last year's Class B title game before losing to Gretna, so the Bearcats have been familiar with hoops success these last several years.

Opening tip is scheduled at 7 p.m.. in MCHS.

Of course, the Bison (7-10) are returning from perhaps their best victory all season.

They avenged an earlier four-point defeat by blasting Ogallala, 64-34, as several players contributed like sophomores D.J. Gross (10 points) and Hunter Hays (seven).

The East-West Shootout continues Friday when McCook hosts a strong 12-7 Gering Bulldog team. That game is also set for 7 p.m.

On Saturday aftenroon, McCook meets 14-4 Alliance to finish the Shootout. So these three Panhandle foes own a total record of 43-13 this season.

Meanwhile, McCook's girls get to make the long road trip and play three mountain zone contests this weekend.

The Bison girls (6-11 record) take on struggling 3-15 Scottsbluff tonight.

Another 12-7 Gering team awaits coach Scott Leisy's squad Friday evening.

On Saturday, they'll meet the 9-9 Alliance Bulldogs.

McCook's girls are trying to build momentum from a super 45-43 comeback win at Ogallala Friday night.

They trailed 10-2 but took charge and won late on junior JoAnn Neel's second basket.