Hodag Highlights: Mosinee edges Rhinelander in conference showdown

A highly anticipated clash between the Great Northern Conference’s only two undefeated teams took place Friday night at Rhinelander High School, with the visiting Mosinee Indians emerging victorious over the Hodags 75-61 to claim sole possession of first place.
Mosinee wasted no time asserting themselves, racing out to a commanding 18-5 lead. But the Hodags refused to fold, methodically chipping away at the deficit throughout the remainder of the first half.Rhinelander’s comeback reached its peak in dramatic fashion as Vince White drove into the lane and converted a bucket just as the halftime horn sounded, giving the Hodags a 38-33 advantage heading into the break.
The second half proved costly for Rhinelander as foul trouble caught up with two key players. Forward Evan Shoeder fouled out with 7:55 still remaining in the game, forcing the Hodags to adjust their lineup during a crucial stretch. Later in the half, Rowan Wiczek also fouled out, further depleting Rhinelander’s options. The free throw line became a major factor in determining the outcome. Mosinee capitalized on their opportunities, converting 23 of 28 attempts from the charity stripe. In stark contrast, Rhinelander managed just 5 of 8 from the line, a 18-point difference in free throws that nearly matched the final margin. The Indians outscored the Hodags in the second half and pulled away down the stretch, with their balanced attack proving too much for the shorthanded home team.Devon Feck paced the Hodags with a game-high 24 points, while Abe Gretzinger added 15 points as the only other Rhinelander player to reach double figures.Mosinee showcased their depth with six players scoring in double digits, a balanced offensive attack that highlighted the difference between the two squads on this night. With the loss, Rhinelander falls to second place in the conference standings while Mosinee remains unbeaten in league play.