Nolan Carlson Scores 1000th Point as Eagles Cruise through Tough Week

   The road did not get any easier for Northland following a big win at Northwoods last Friday as they traveled to Chisholm to take on the Bluestreaks on Bob McDonald court. Nolan Carlson was on fire early scoring 14 points in the first half on 7-7 shooting.  The 6th basket put him over the 1000-point mark for his stellar career as he went on to score 17 for the game to help push the Eagles to a 70-61 victory in an important conference and section matchup. Carlson has been exceptional all year, shooting 64% from the field and he has provided a consistent 1-2 scoring punch along with Alec Wake who had 25 on the night. “You couldn’t ask for a better player and a better kid than Nolan”, Eagles assistant coach Bill Wake said. “He does anything you ask of him to help us win games.”  

   The game was a back-and-forth affair with the visitors remaining in control, but unable to pull away. Liam Wake went down early in the second half with an ankle injury and Carlson was under the weather in the second half, forcing the Eagles’ reserves to step up.  Juniors Brevon Jackson and Dylan Schwarz both played key minutes down the stretch and reliable center Jace Jackson corralled 13 rebounds and hit several pressure free throws to close out the game.

   On Friday the Eagles hosted Mt. Iron-Buhl, one of the top teams not only in the section, but in the state. After a 51-point drubbing at the hands of the Rangers last year, the Eagles came in looking for a much more respectable showing. Respectable was an understatement as the Eagles jumped out to a 40-18 halftime lead on their way to a 77-58 victory. Liam Wake, who looked doubtful to even play with his ankle injury from Tuesday provided key energy and 9 points to spearhead an efficient offensive night.  

   Asher Zubich came into the night needing 21 points to reach 3000 for his career.  He managed 22, but hounding defense by Alec Wake forced him to take 24 shots to get there.  In addition to the defensive effort, Alec Wake had a strong offensive night with 26 points including six 3-pointers. He also contributed 6 rebounds and 9 assists.  Aiden Carlson was on fire early with 3 first half 3-pointers and finished with 17.  Nolan Carlson tossed in 13 points and had 7 assists while Jace Jackson had another dominating night on the boards with 15.

   The Eagles are in a good position at 7-1 to push for a top seed in the playoffs heading into the Christmas Holidays. With several home games in the month of January, Northland is looking to go on a run. Next game is Nashwauk-Keewatin in Remer on January 3rd.