On Wednesday March 10th, the Ames High Boys Basketball team played their first game in the State Tournament. Marking a 13 game winning streak, Ames rose to the top beating Council Bluffs 53-31 advancing them to play against Waukee on Thursday March, 11th.

A 13 game winning streak must mean a strong bond between players. “I feel the team played very well together. We had a rough patch in the middle of the season, but once we got through that, everything started clicking,” said Senior Casey Mumm. 

For Junior Corey Phillips, he said, “My coaches and my teammates help me develop my skills and they all helped me grow as an athlete and a person. Being on the basketball team is like having a second family. I will keep the relationships that I have built through basketball my entire life. I love every one of my teammates like they are my brother.”

Thursday March 11th, brought a different feeling for the team, student section, and school. Ames ranking 3rd, facing Waukee ranked 2nd, it surely would be some game. By halftime, it was not looking very bright for Ames. Waukee having physical height and ranking on their side, the 3-pointers just kept coming, Ames not being able to catch up. 

“We were all just trying to figure out ways to get back in the game,” said Phillips. For seniors on the team it was now or never. “ I just think we came out a little slow, which hurt us in the long run but, overall, it wasn’t our night,” said Mumm. “My mindset was to keep playing hard and to not give up no matter the circumstances. Also knowing this could be the last half of basketball I would play pushed me to give it everything I got.”

In a devastating defeat, Ames lost to Waukee 36-71 in the Semi-Final Round.  “I would like to thank the student section and the fans for supporting us throughout this year especially with all of the Covid restrictions,” said Mumm. “I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to play at Wells Fargo Arena because it is an experience I will never forget.”