Coach Don Kelley’s third trip to the state tournament came with an experienced group of returning players in Pat Anderson, Jim Hamersky, Artie Aksamit, and John Magsmaen. The Bolt cagers defeated Ashland, Plattsmouth, and Nebraska City to earn a trip to the state tournament while several players battled the flu.
If stomachs were troubled in districts, the state tournament would provide no relief as the three state tournament games were decided by a total of seven points! An opening round 55-52 win against West Point CC pitted the Thunderbolts against an undefeated (22-0) team from Ord in the semi-finals. A narrow 57-55 victory set up a title showdown with Lexington.
The 1974 Boys Basketball team earned Pius X’s first ever state title in basketball with a thrilling 44-42 victory on a basket with three seconds left.
“This type of happiness brings tears to my eyes. This group has had some almost unbelievable things happen to them. To see them show the determination to come back and win is very emotional for me.” – Vince Aldrich
