In a thrilling finish for local youth basketball, Hettinger‑Scranton’s fifth‑grade Nighthawks clinched a 30‑27 win over the Bowman Bulldogs on Tuesday night. With the game clock winding down, senior guard Myles Brackel launched a three‑pointer that swished through the net as the final seconds expired, securing the decisive margin.
Coach Taylor praised the team’s effort, noting that every player “played their little hearts out” throughout the contest. The Nighthawks displayed disciplined defense and smart ball movement, limiting the Bulldogs to just 27 points despite a fast‑paced game.
Brackel’s mother, who was on the sidelines, expressed pride in her son and his teammates. “All the players on the team gave everything they had,” she said. “It’s a wonderful feeling to see them celebrate together after such a hard‑fought game.”
The victory marks an important milestone for the Hettinger‑Scranton program, which has been building momentum this season. The Nighthawks entered the matchup with a 4‑2 record and now improve to 5‑2, positioning them among the top teams in the regional league.
Bowman’s coach, Mr. Hansen, commended the Nighthawks for their composure under pressure. “Myles hit a great shot, and they executed well in the final moments,” he said. “We’ll learn from this loss and come back stronger.”
Fans from both schools gathered at the community gym in Bismarck, cheering loudly as the final shot fell. Parents, grandparents, and classmates celebrated the win with high‑fives and chants, underscoring the role of youth sports in fostering community spirit and teamwork.
What’s Next for the Nighthawks?
The Nighthawks’ next game is scheduled for Friday against the Mandan Mavericks, another strong contender in the league. Coach Taylor emphasized the importance of staying focused and continuing to develop fundamentals. “We’ll keep working on passing, shooting, and defense,” he said. “The goal is to finish the season strong and give these kids a memorable experience.”
Local businesses have also shown support, with several sponsors providing snacks and equipment for the team’s practices. The community’s involvement highlights the value placed on youth athletics in the Bismarck area, where schools and families collaborate to nurture the next generation of leaders.
As the season progresses, the Nighthawks hope to maintain their winning streak and bring more excitement to the gym. For now, the buzz in Hettinger‑Scranton’s hallways centers on Brackel’s clutch three‑pointer—a moment that will be remembered by teammates and fans alike.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.