Dakota’s boys basketball team headed to Roseville to play in a highly anticipated matchup between the top two team in the MAC Red division. Dakota won eight straight games coming into the game and had an overall record of 8-1, while Roseville had an overall record of 9-1, their only loss coming against Dakota in their first matchup.

The first half of the game was slow paced due to fantastic defense by both teams. Dakota guard Mark Tocco converted a few steals into easy layups and forward Xavier Glenn contributed with a few blocks and forced turnovers. The referees were calling a tight game as many fouls were called but neither team could take advantage at the free throw line. Dakota trailed 23-39 at halftime, looking to make a comeback. The Cougars came ready to play in the second half as they decreased the deficit. In the 3^rd quarter sophomore Joshua Himes converted on a crazy And-1 three pointer to give Dakota their first lead of the game, 35-34. Roseville would regain the lead as the quarter finished with a score of 40-38. Roseville guard Martell Turner stepped up big in the 4th quarter as he scored nine of his 15 points in this period. Turner found his teammate John Ukomadu for a fast break alley-oop giving the Panthers all the momentum they would need to seal the victory, Unfortunately, in the closing minutes Dakota’s star Ryan Rollins took a hard fall and injured his leg, he would end up leading the Cougars in scoring with 18 points. Roseville successfully avenged their only loss with a final score of 63-56. Both teams still have an opportunity to win the MAC Red division and certainly could see each other again in the MAC tournament or MHSAA playoffs.