The reigning Class 3A champion Norwalk boys basketball team hosted Mason City Monday evening in the first round of the Class 4A Substate 8 playoffs. The Warriors battled hard for four quarters, and came away with a 71-62 victory, as aired on KNIA3.

Norwalk started the game hot, and led by as many as six in the first quarter. The Mohawks responded, and got the score to within 15-13 after one. The teams traded buckets throughout the second quarter, which featured a few lead changes. A strong last two minutes of the half allowed Norwalk’s lead to swell to 33-27 heading into the intermission. Mason City fought back in the third, but Norwalk held onto the lead, and was on top 48-45 heading into the fourth. That’s when the Warriors put the game away, leading by as many as 10 points on their way to the program’s first ever Class 4A postseason victory. Senior Max Juergens says Mason City gave the Warriors a quality battle, but his team was able to do what they do best, close games out down the stretch.

Juergens led the way with 19 points, while Cole Tunender tacked on 14. Norwalk moves to 14-8 overall, and advances to Friday’s substate semifinal at Ankeny.

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