GOWRIE — Sam Mericle scored 30 points, freshman Jack McElroy had a career-high 19 and JT Laufersweiler added 18 as the St. Edmond boys picked up their first victory of the season here Tuesday night, 79-61 over Southeast Valley.

After tough setbacks to Bishop Garrigan and Clarion-Goldfield/Dows to begin the season, the Gaels (1-2 overall) finally had all their key pieces together for this one.

“We did a much better job of moving the basketball,” SEHS head coach Adolph Kochendorfer said. “That was the biggest thing that stood out. No more one pass or two pass and shoot. We moved the ball, reversed it and got some good looks.

“We have a lot of kids that can shoot it, but we have to get them in the best position possible to do that. We did a nice job of that (Tuesday) night.”

Leading by one heading into the fourth, St. Edmond outscored the Jaguars 38-21 over the final eight minutes.

“They were pressing and we did a good job of breaking it and getting buckets,” Kochendorfer said. “We played well. Sam really came on strong at the end of last season and has worked hard to improve over the offseason.

“Jack can shoot that eight-foot jumper and after we knocked down some outside shots, he took advantage of what the defense gave him.”

For Southeast Valley, Justin Loseke had 21 points and Carter Ferry added 11.

The Gaels return to the court on Thursday, hosting South Hamilton. The Jaguars welcome in Emmetsburg Friday night.

“It feels good to get that first win,” Kochendorfer said. “We’ve just got to continue working hard and getting better day by day.”

ST. EDMOND 79, SOUTHEAST VALLEY 61

St. Edmond — Sam Mericle 30, Jack McElroy 19, JT Laufersweiler 18, Jackson Palmer 8, Aaron Lursen 2, Grant Galles 2.

Southeast Valley — Justin Loseke 21, Carter Ferry 11, Andrew Miller 8, Drew Corell 8, Eli Johnson 4, Carl Berglund 4, Brady Hanson 2, Hane Sorenson 1, Nate Scott 2.

Quarter scores: St. Edmond led 15-9; Southeast Valley led 32-28; St. Edmond led 41-40.