A defensive battle turned into a Lone Tree win Tuesday at Lone Tree as the Lions outlasted Iowa Mennonite School in the second half to earn a 52-35 win.

After both teams had played their early season contests in the 70s, teams, coaches and audience were surprised to see Lone Tree leading just 11-6 after one quarter and the game tied at 20 at the half. The game seesawed in the third quarter as both teams knocked down clutch shots but Lone Tree got a big performance off the bench from Dawson Swails, including three, three point goals to stretch their lead to 36-28 going to the fourth. In the final quarter Lone Tree continued to distance themselves, posting a 16-7 run in the frame to secure the victory.

Swails led all scorers on the night with 16 points, including four three point goals, Niko Gosnell added 14 points for the Lions. Trevor Leyden came off the bench to lead IMS. With the win Lone Tree is 2-0 and will travel to Louisa-Muscatine Friday. IMS falls to 0-1 on the year and will host Wapello Friday night.