BRANDON –The Brandon Bobcats extend their win streak to three, with a 71-61 win over the Manitoba Bisons Friday.  The Bobcats jumped to an early lead, but the Bisons came within one point in the third quarter. The Bobcats still managed to find a way to pick up an important win.

The Bobcats stormed out of the gate, jumping to an early lead they would never relinquish.  The 'Cats shot 52.9 percent in the first frame, highlighted by a 10-3 run to end the first quarter. Brandon then started the second with four straight strong possessions, extending their lead to 20 points.

Brandon started the third quarter on a 6-2 run, but the Bisons wouldn't go away, clawing back to a one point deficit at 57-56. The Bobcats then went on a 8-3 run to take back the lead, and effectively take back control of the game.

"We maintained our composure when it was a one point game," says Bobcats coach Novell Thomas. "Any win, any loss is a learning opportunity, it's encouraging to get back into a game when we needed to. We have work to do but they're determined to win."

The Bobcats were paced by Alyssa Montgomery with a game-high of 18 points and three blocks. Keisha Cox had 13 points and eight rebounds. Aleah Bridges finished the game two points shy of a double-double, with 11 rebounds and eight points.

The Bisons Claire Harvey had a team-high 13 points. Nicole Konieczny with 12 points, four assists and ten rebounds. Montana Kinzel had five points, four assists and three blocks.

The rematch goes Saturday night back at the Brandon University Healthy Living Centre. Tip-off is scheduled for 5 pm.

(Photo courtesy Mackenzie Gerry)