The Yankton Bucks (7–12) defeated the Spearfish Spartans (14–5) 65–59 on Friday night, spoiling Senior Night in Spearfish. Yankton’s Jackson Kudera led all scorers with 35 points, including six three‑pointers on nine attempts.
Both offenses started strong, ending the first quarter tied 16–16. Spearfish held a narrow 31–29 lead at halftime, helped by senior Kamren Davis, who finished with 20 points, exceeding his season scoring average.
Yankton took control in the third quarter, outscoring Spearfish 19–12 behind a 13‑point surge from Kudera. Spearfish guard Kade Vavruska exited in the second half with a lower‑body injury, and his status for today’s game against Brookings remains uncertain.
The Bucks maintained their lead throughout the fourth quarter despite a strong performance from Spearfish junior forward Karsen Seyer. Seyer scored a season‑high 16 points and kept the Spartans within reach, earning Superior Performer of the Game honors.
Yankton’s scoring was led by Kudera’s 35 points, followed by Beck Ryken with 11, Owen Eidness with seven, and Abe O’Brien with six. The Bucks have now won seven of the last eight matchups against Spearfish since 2018 and have taken five of their last six games to close the regular season. They face Douglas today in their finale.
Spearfish has now dropped three straight games, all against Class AA opponents. The Spartans remain sixth in the Class AA standings and will look to finish the regular season strong against Brookings today.
Fans can watch the Spartans and Bobcats on KDSJ‑TV on YouTube and on KDSJ’s Facebook Live. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. in Spearfish.
Replay: https://www.youtube.com/live/ZizDFZnS6OQ?si=8RZ4P7adSxW2Yiwz
