The Snake River Panthers have won two state titles in the last three years and have generally been considered one of the top teams in Idaho’s 3A Class, which is what makes Star Valley’s 64-58 win Saturday afternoon that much more satisfying.

“I couldn’t be more proud of these guys and how they played,” stated Head Coach Todd Dixon. “They handled the pressure of playing with the lead and did a pretty good job. We’re still not to where I want this team to be, but really am thrilled with their effort today.”

Mitch Schwab led all scorers with 21 points to go along with six rebounds, while Zane Porter scored 12 of his 18 points in the second half to keep a slim lead intact, including three three-pointers. Junior Tyler Schwab also was in double figures with 16 points, including three from behind the three-point line himself. Remick Rappleye scored six and pulled down a team-high nine rebounds as the Braves were able to hold off a tenacious Snake River squad down the stretch. The win was the first of the season for the Braves and for Coach Dixon at SVHS as Star Valley improves their record to 1-2.

Up next for the Braves is a date with the Rawlins Outlaws on Thursday, as part of the Flaming Gorge Classic in Green River. Star Valley will also play Cheyenne Central and Gillette in the three day tournament.

This tournament will come just a few days before a much anticipated match-up between Star Valley and Jackson who meet just once this year as a non-conference game on December 20. While the game against Jackson will pit Star Valley against one of their former all-time greats in Doug Broadhead, it will also serve as a fund-raiser. While several incarnations of the fund-raiser have been discussed, it has been determined that money will be raised from the large expected attendance and donated to the Jimmy V Foundation for cancer research.

The Star Valley Independent wishes Coach Wiley a speedy recovery and also extends best wishes to him and his family.

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