On Monday the Bears Den played host the Class 3, district 11 tournament. Butler drew Stockton for the first round. Coming into the post season, the Bears held a record of 4-16 and were handed the #6 seed. Stockton touted a 17-8 record, while laying claim to the 2 seed in the district.

The Tigers controlled the tip and jumped out to a quick 13-3 lead. The Bears, who looked lifeless early, ended the 1st with a 5-0 run to sit at 13-7 after the opening 8 minutes. The Bears continued to chip away at the Tigers lead and trailed by just 5 at the half, 25-20.

Out of the locker room, Butler continued to cut into the Stockton lead. The Bears trailed by just 2 points going into the final period, 35-33. In the final quarter, the Bears continued to fight valiantly, however Stockton would eventually prove too much as they claimed a 53-44 victory.

Jake Chandler and Jesse Carter both collected 15 points in the contest. Jesse was able to hammer home 3 shots from distance a game where the long ball really was what was able to keep the Bears in striking distance.

Baxter, for the Tigers, filled up the stat sheet with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 8 blocks.

The Tigers will advance to take on the Adrian Blackhawks.

This season for the Bears was one riddled with injuries, and ups and downs, but every time that Butler was on the hardwood this year they left their all out there. It is a still a great day to be a Bear! Any Bears fan should be proud of the effort this team put in this season!

photos by Rachelle Mallatt and Nicole Shoushe