HUXLEY, IA – The Ballard Bombers are heading back to the state tournament after a commanding 73-49 victory over Des Moines Christian in the Class 3A Substate Final at The Hangar on Monday night.  Ballard, ranked No. 4 in the state, controlled the game from the start and never looked back as they secured their spot in the state quarterfinals.

The Bombers set the tone early, using a balanced offensive attack to take an 18-14 lead after the first quarter.  They extended their lead in the second, outscoring the Lions 22-12 behind strong defensive play and efficient scoring.  Heading into halftime, Ballard held a comfortable 40-26 advantage.

Des Moines Christian struggled to find an answer in the second half as Ballard's defense clamped down.  The Bombers held the Lions to just 10 third-quarter points while continuing to push the pace on offense.  A 14-point third quarter kept Ballard firmly in control with a 54-36 lead heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter was more of the same as Ballard closed the game strong, adding 19 more points to seal the decisive victory. 

With the win, Ballard advances to the Class 3A State Tournament, where they will face MOC-Floyd Valley in the quarterfinal round on Tuesday, March 11, at 12:15 PM.  The Bombers will look to carry their momentum into Wells Fargo Arena as they chase a state championship.  Ballard has now qualified for state three of the last five years.

Photo Credit: Davidson Photography