Bethesda used an explosive third quarter to defeat International School in the first round of the class A sectional at University.

Deon Stewart played a huge role for Bethesda from start to finish. Stewart a transfer from Lawrence North attacked early and often. He challenged International’s 6-foot-8 sophomore Mawich Kachjaani frequently at the basket. Stewart was able to convert most of his look in the paint although Kachjaani turned away a couple.

Bethesda’s zone did a great job of forcing International to take outside shots. Those outside shots were not falling for International throughout the game. The Gryphons only shot an effective field goal percentage of 33.3% for the game.

Kachjaani stepped up his scoring in the second period. In the quarter, he was able to get deep position then finished at the basket. His scoring was the bulk of International’s scoring in the first half.

Junior guard Wes Rischar was a strong second option for Bethesda. He had a scoring outburst in the second quarter. He hit a couple outside shots then got a runner in the lane when the defense extended to stop him from shooting. Rischar scored 17 points in the game.

Despite International’s struggles, Bethesda only led 24-17 at the half. Bethesda turned up the pressure and started to hit more shots in the third quarter. Bethesda outscored International 19-8 in the third quarter. The Gryphons were never in the game during the fourth period.

Bethesda coasted to the 61-44 victory. Stewart’s 21 points led Bethesda. Wes Rischar added 17. Mawich Kachjaani led International with 21 points, 10 rebounds and six blocks. Bethesda plays Indiana School for the Deaf on Friday.

Bethesda – Deaon Stewart 21 points (8-16 FG, 1-4 3FG, 4-5 FT), 7 rebounds, 2 assists; Wes Rischar 17 points (7-16 FG, 2-8 3FG, 1-1 FT), 3 rebounds; Drew Hayden 2 turnovers; Liam McCurry 3 points (1-2 FG, 1-2 3FG), 1 rebound, 1 turnover, 1 steal; Andrew Macy 4 assists, no turnovers; Trevon Ryans 4 points (1-4 FG, 2-2 FT), 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 turnovers, 4 steals; Jackson Alsdorf 5 rebounds; Daniel Mason 5 points, 4 rebounds; Wyatt Gordon 3 points, 3 rebounds; Bennett Van Soelen 6 points; Andre Stone 2 points

International – Mawich Kachjaani 21 points (7-16 FG, 0-2 3FG, 7-10 FT), 10 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 turnover, 6 blocks, 2 steals; Ismael Issiaka 2 points, 4 rebounds; Jacob Vigran 5 points, 4 rebounds; Akuei Mading 5 points, 4 rebounds; Jonathan Sanyon 8 points, 4 rebounds; Christian Daniel 3 points