The TMP Monarchs closed the third quarter on an 11-2 run to build a four-point lead over the Smith Center Redmen and they would never travel again on their way to a 65-59 win in a feather bracket game Saturday in Stockton.

Bill Meagher postgame interview

After the Monarchs built a four-point first quarter lead on a number of occasions the Redmen outscored the Monarchs 17-14 in the second quarter and took a 28-26 lead into the halftime break.

Smith Center matched their largest lead of the first-half at four in the third quarter at 35-31. But the Monarchs were able to chip away at the lead at closed the third quarter on a 15-7 run. Ryan Karlin and Lucas Lang hit back-to-back threes as the Monarchs built a 46-42 lead.

In the fourth quarter the Monarchs made six of their final nine free throws to secure the four-point victory.

Jared Mayers finished with a career-high 20 points and 12 rebounds. Ryan Karlin chipped in 13 and Jackson Schulte had 12.

Rece Buckmaster led three in double-figures with 12 for the Redmen.

Game highlights

The Monarchs improved to 6-4 and will take on Ellis Monday in the MCL quarterfinals at 6 p.m.

Smith Center falls to 2-7 and will play Stockton in the MCL tournament 9th place game Thursday in Stockton.