FIELD TWP— After last year’s state tournament run, the Grizzlies boys basketball team is back in action with a promising start after going 2-1 in a season-opening home stand. On Tuesday, they thoroughly dominated Bigfork, taking an early lead and never looking as they posted an 86-33 win over the Huskies.

Seniors Cade Goggleye and Ian Sherman both had big nights, posting 21 points apiece to lead all scorers. Sophomore Darius Goggleye also saw double digits, adding another 13 points.

Bigfork’s Liam Prato led scoring for the Huskies, with 17 points. No other stats were immediately available from the game, which improved the Grizzlies to 2-1.

In earlier action this past week, the Grizzlies struggled against visiting Cass Lake-Bena, falling 61-44 on Saturday. The Panthers were looking for revenge after the Grizzlies beat them in the semi-final round of the state Class A tournament last March. The game also suggested that the Grizzlies will have some adjusting to do after losing some top senior players from last year’s team.

“Some of the roles we are filling from last year’s squad will take some time to develop,” said Head Coach Will Kleppe said. “We are going to have to be patient. When our team finds its roles, we will start to build our confidence.”

Freshman T.J. Chiabotti led the way against the Panthers, pouring in 16 points, including four three-pointers. Senior Chase Kleppe followed with four buckets for eight points, while Darius Goggleye added seven points and Trevor Morrison added six. Cade Goggleye tallied five points.

Cass Lake junior Jarell Jacobs led all scorers with 18 points.

The Grizzlies had a much better outing in their home opener on Thursday, as they dominated South Ridge enroute to a 74-26 victory. Senior Dylan Chiabotti led with 15 points, while Morrison followed with 14 points. T.J. Chiabotti tallied nine points, Ian Sherman added eight and Darius Goggleye scored six. Kleppe tallied five points along with eight boards and four steals, while Cade Goggleye notched four points, nine assists, and five steals.

The Grizzlies will have their first road game this Saturday against Mayer Lutheran. That game will be played in the Twin Cities at Hopkins High School. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:15 p.m.