The Hastings Raiders boys basketball team stayed busy last week, hosting two strong Metro-area opponents and gaining valuable experience despite a pair of home losses.
Hastings opened the week Tuesday night against South St. Paul, playing an up-tempo game that stayed competitive deep into the second half. The Raiders showed balance on offense and toughness on the glass, keeping pace with the Packers through much of the night. Hastings trailed by just two at halftime and continued to trade baskets early in the second half behind sharp perimeter shooting and strong interior play. South St. Paul gradually pulled away late by capitalizing at the free throw line, handing Hastings an 83-75 setback.
Junior guard Caleb Gudissa provided a spark with his shooting, while Landon Miska delivered one of his most efficient offensive performances of the season, scoring repeatedly in the paint and cleaning up second chances. Brady Hendrickson added steady production on both ends, and Hastings finished with 35 rebounds and 24 assists, signs of strong team play even in defeat.
The Raiders returned to the floor Thursday night against St. Thomas Academy, facing a disciplined and physical opponent that controlled the game after halftime. Hastings stayed within striking distance early, trailing by just three after the first half, but St. Thomas Academy used a strong second half run to create separation and secure a 73-52 win.
Hendrickson again led the way for Hastings, knocking down four three pointers and pulling down eight rebounds. The Raiders struggled to find a consistent offensive rhythm in the second half, shooting just 20-of-56 from the field for the game, while St. Thomas Academy converted key opportunities at the line and limited second chances. Despite the result, Hastings continued to compete defensively, recording 10 steals and three blocked shots.
While the win column did not favor the Raiders this week, the stretch provided meaningful minutes and learning opportunities against quality competition as the season moves forward.
Hastings fell to South St. Paul 83-75. Landon Miska led with 25 points, Caleb Gudissa added 19, Brady Hendrickson had 15, Matthew Foss scored 8, and Seth Leary finished with 6.
Hastings fell to St. Thomas Academy 73-52. Brady Hendrickson led with 18 points, Caleb Gudissa added 9, Matthew Foss had 9, Landon Miska scored 8, and Carter Lundstrom finished with 5.
Hastings will host Two Rivers on Friday, Jan. 30 at 6:30 p.m., then travel to Hill-Murray on Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m., visit Simley on Friday, Feb. 6 at 7:00 p.m., and return home to face Prescott on Monday, Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m.