(New Buffalo, MI) - Add a conference title to the milestones reached this year by the New Buffalo High School boys' basketball team.

 

The Bison, ranked No. 2 in Class D, soundly defeated Bridgman at home last night 70-44.  A New Buffalo defeat would have meant both teams sharing the conference title.

 

In front of a packed house, the Bees jumped out to a 6-0 lead. But the Bison scored 20 of the following 22 points. Bridgman worked the ball to slow New Buffalo's fast-paced offense and stayed within striking distance until the fourth quarter when the Bison outscored the Bees by 14 points.

 

Senior Anthony Lijewski carried the Bison with 33 points on 70-percent shooting from the floor. Lijewski nailed seven three-point shots.

 

"I guess I was just hitting. I kind of felt weightless. It was fun. I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the moment," Lijewski said.

The Bison (19-1) are ranked No. 6 in the nation for scoring averaging 84 points a game.

 

Officials believe no basketball team at New Buffalo High School has ever been this high in the rankings.

 

New Buffalo begins their quest to repeat as District 4 champions on Wednesday at River Valley High School. The Bison, who also have their sites on a state title, will play the winner between River Valley and Michigan Lutheran.