First Half Lapses Cost Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls Wins 55 42

DETROIT LAKES — Detroit Lakes hosted Fergus Falls at Lakeshirts Fieldhouse on Friday, December 5, and could not overcome an early deficit in a 55 42 Central Lakes loss. The Lakers trailed 8 0 early when Fergus Falls capitalized on open looks from beyond the arc, and Detroit Lakes struggled to recover because of first half defensive lapses.

“We’re still learning how to play physical man to man defense, so we came out playing zone,” Detroit Lakes coach Robb Flint said. “They’re a good team, so they were able to make their shots but I thought our effort was really good tonight on that front.” Flint called timeout after Fergus Falls opened the second half with a 5 0 run.

Detroit Lakes got on the board when Aveah Smith chased a rebound and put it back for two, and Smith co led the Lakers with 12 points. Freshman guard Sophia Karlgaard provided a late spark off the bench, hitting two three pointers and adding playmaking that trimmed the margin in the closing minutes. Turnovers, however, hampered Detroit Lakes down the stretch and Fergus Falls closed the game with an 8 2 run to secure the victory.

The loss underscores defensive and ball control areas for Detroit Lakes to address as conference play continues. The coach framed the game as part of a learning process for a team still adapting to more physical man to man schemes. At the same time the performance of Karlgaard highlighted promising depth and the potential immediate role of younger players in meaningful minutes.

For local supporters, the game offered a clear view of both growth opportunities and emerging talent as the Lakers move forward in the Central Lakes schedule. The team will return to practice with defensive fundamentals and turnover reduction likely to be central focuses in preparation for upcoming matchups.