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Matson’s buzzer beater advances Humboldt

ALGONA — Caden Matson banked home a shot from around the free throw line as time expired on Thursday night, pushing Humboldt into a Class 3A substate final with a dramatic 71-69 win over North Central Conference rival Algona.

Matson, a junior, finished with 14 points for the Wildcats (15-7 overall). His heroics came off of a turnover.

Will Orness led the way with 19 points, while Gabe Gidel added 17 and Sam Fischer 15.

Senior guard Noah Nelson did everything he could to keep Algona (16-7) alive. Nelson finished with a game-high 38 points, making 11 field goals and going 10-for-10 at the free throw line.

The Wildcats led 18-12 at the end of the first quarter, but the Bulldogs battled back and took a six-point advantage into the final period.

Humboldt will now face Clear Lake on Tuesday in Algona for a 3A state tournament berth. The Lions are 21-2 overall.

The conference foes split the regular-season series. Tip time is set for 7 p.m.

HUMBOLDT 71, ALGONA 69

Humboldt — Will Orness 19, Gabe Gidel 17, Caden Matson 14, Sam Fischer 15, Jacob Heier 3, Trevor Jacobson 3.

Algona — Noah Nelson 38, Tyler Manske 13, Aaron Weringa 2, Kyle Simpson 5, James Wartick 4, Garrett Goche 7.

Quarter scores: Humboldt led 18-12, 31-29; Algona led 56-50.

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