SPEARFISH, S.D. — The Spearfish Spartans boys basketball team erased an early deficit Friday night, using a stifling defensive second half to defeat the Rapid City Christian Comets 54–44. The victory lifts Spearfish to 14–2 on the season, while Rapid City Christian falls to 10–8.
The Comets controlled the opening quarter, building a 12–4 lead as the Spartans struggled to generate offense. Spearfish responded in the second quarter behind balanced scoring and improved defensive play, cutting the deficit to 24–21 by halftime.
The game’s turning point came after the break. Spearfish intensified its defensive pressure, forcing turnovers that ignited a decisive run. Bennett Kortan and Mason Southern led the effort, combining for eight steals as the Spartans disrupted Rapid City Christian’s offensive rhythm.
That defensive surge fueled a third-quarter comeback that put Spearfish in front 36–32 heading into the final period. The Spartans maintained control down the stretch, executing offensively while continuing to pressure the Comets to secure the 10-point win.
Kortan led Spearfish with 17 points, adding two steals and two rebounds. Kade Vavruska delivered a strong all-around performance with 16 points, nine rebounds, and two assists. Southern contributed seven points, six steals, and six assists, while Kamren Davis added six points and four steals. Karsen Seyer finished with six points and two assists, and Cooper Gibbs chipped in two points and five rebounds.
Rapid City Christian was led by Peyton Glenn with 13 points, while Joaquin Petrik added nine points for the Comets.
Spearfish’s ability to overcome a slow start and dominate defensively in the second half underscored the team’s resilience as it continues to build momentum late in the season.