ABERDEEN — Wessington Springs gave its passionate fanbase a long-awaited state tournament win on Friday.

Playing in their first state boys basketball tournament since 1994, the Spartans picked up a 52-39 consolation semifinal win over Viborg-Hurley at Wachs Arena. 

To help celebrate the state tourney berth, Wessington Springs’ fans decorated signs, semi-trucks and hay bales along U.S. Highway 281 leading up to the tourney. The Spartans gave their fans, who coach Kenny Huether compared to a classic basketball movie, reason to cheer on Friday. 

“When we left the other day for our send off, it felt like Hoosiers and I am so happy for the boys to get this win at this level,” Huether said. “But I am just as happy for our fans to experience a win here as well.”

The Spartans (23-2) placed three players in double figures, including a game-high 18 points and four 3-pointers from Parker Graff. The sophomore guard also realized the magnitude of the state tourney victory. 

“It’s really special and I am proud of my team,” Graff said. “I am proud to keep the community happy.” 

Blake Larson added 16 points, while Ryder Michalek added 11 points. Brock Krueger posted five points and eight rebounds. 

Viborg/Hurley’s Brady Schroedermeier had 17 points, four assists and three rebounds. Nick Hanson added 15 points and nine rebounds for the Cougars (18-7). 

The teams played to a 14-14 first-quarter tie, but points were hard to come by in the second quarter. Wessington Springs used an 8-6 second quarter and took a 22-20 lead into halftime. 

“I love the bounceback,” Huether said. “I learned this from past teams and past years, but State B is relentless and you lose Day 1, you feel sorry for yourself and don't show up ready to go Day 2, you are in trouble and I really loved the way my guys competed today.” 

Graff buried a deep 3-pointer to beat halftime buzzer, which he said also helped spark his offensive production. 

“It was a little rough right away and nerves were getting there,” Graff said. “But after that I kind of got more confident. The team was giving me the ball and giving me opportunities. I am thankful for that.”

The Spartans’ defense locked down Viborg-Hurley in the fourth quarter. Clinging to a 36-33 lead, Wessington Springs held Viborg-Hurley to six points. 

“Our foundation is our defense and then it carried us today,” Huether said. “No question about it. The Hanson kid is tough. I honestly said if we keep him to 15, it’s a big step to winning the game and I think that’s exactly what he ended up with.”

Viborg-Hurley will play Leola-Frederick Area or Gregory in the consolation semifinals on Friday.

Wessington Springs will play Leola-Frederick Area or Gregory in the championship semifinals on Friday.