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DeKalb moved into the semifinals of the Class 4A Sectional at Carroll with a victory over Snider on Wednesday.
Here were five keys to the win:
1. Slow the pace
There was no doubt that Snider wanted to push the pace of the game while DeKalb wanted to slow it down. The Barons won that battle getting back on defense with regularity to cut out the Panthers' transition game.
2. Hitting the boards
DeKalb played even with Snider on the boards, not allowing the Panthers second and third opportunities to score. The game finished with the Panthers holding a 23-19 edge, close enough for it not to be a factor.
3. Limiting Leander Williams
Snider's junior guard finished with just nine points, including 2-of-7 shooting from the field. He attacked the hoop several times, but DeKalb stood its ground and either made him pass outside or take a bad shot.
4. Valuing possessions
Any time you only turn the ball over five times in a game, you have a great chance for a victory. When a game comes down to a few possessions as Wednesday's game did, those extra possessions are invaluable.
5. Getting Snider in foul trouble
While DeKalb had to deal with some foul trouble, the Panthers had it even worse. Four players finished with three or more fouls, including Josh Spitnale and Leander Williams, each of whom spent time on the bench with issues in the foul column.
