The Star Valley Braves varsity basketball team opened its season last weekend at the Title One Tip-Off Classic held at the Mountain America Center in Idaho Falls, showing flashes of dominance, resilience, and promise against strong competition.
Star Valley began the tournament in impressive fashion with a decisive 62–32 victory over the Coeur d’Alene Vikings. The Braves controlled the game from the opening tip, building a commanding lead by halftime. Senior guard Lincoln Liddiard, No. 2, expressed the team’s confidence during the break, saying, “This is lite, honestly we goin’ for the chip.”
Head coach Matt Shumway echoed the sentiment at halftime, offering a reminder of the work still ahead. “I have never seen a team win a game in the first half,” Shumway said, emphasizing the importance of staying focused despite the large lead.
The Braves followed up with a thrilling 70–69 win over the Sandpoint Bulldogs in their second game of the weekend. Senior Cooper Lancaster, No. 1, delivered a standout performance, scoring 38 points to help secure the narrow victory. “I am mostly happy we just came through with the dub,” Lancaster said after the game. “It was a close game.”
In their third and final contest, Star Valley faced a tough Boise Brave squad and came up short, falling 60–52. Despite the loss, the Braves gained valuable early-season experience against high-level competition.
With a 2–1 record to open the season, Star Valley leaves the Title One Tip-Off Classic with momentum, confidence, and plenty to build on as the season continues.
































