By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nemaha Central Thunder gave the Beloit Trojans all they wanted in a Class 3A boys quarterfinal at the Hutchinson Sports Arena Wednesday, but Beloit was able to salt the game away late as the Thunder weren't able to hit outside shots when they needed them.
Beloit's balance was the difference, as in addition to Bryce Mason's 16 points, Vincent Palen had 11 points and Hudson Gray and Carson Cox both added 8 for the Trojans.
Nemaha Central was led by 11 from Marcus Beck, but he didn't score after halftime. Austin Ahlquist and Kurtis Beck each had 8 for the Thunder.
The Thunder was virtually silent from outside, as they went 1 for 15 from distance. Beloit did much better on long-range shots, cashing 6 of 12, with Palen and Carson Cox each hitting a pair of threes.
Beloit advances to the 4:45 semifinal on Friday, where they will face Wichita Collegiate.