Lucas Griffy hit a three-pointer and scored eight points, sparking North Clay on a run. Mason Byers had four points and Cody Zimdars connected from behind the arc, as the Cardinals closed to within three points late in the game. But Keenan Griffith hit a jumper and Schmidt went 3-for-4 from the foul line in the closing seconds, helping the Bulldogs hang on and secure the road win.

“One of the lessons we learned tonight was you can’t let up against quality opponents,” Rincker said. “Credit North Clay. They put us in some positions that made us uncomfortable. That’s why you have to keep working hard.”

Byers was one of three North Clay players to reach double figures. He scored 21 points, while Zimdars added 12 and Kade Atwood chipped in with 11. Zimdars entered the game averaging 27 points.

Schmidt finished with a game-high 30 points. He made 11-of-14 shots overall, including 5-for-7 from long range and 5-of-6 from the free throw line. He also pulled down eight rebounds.

Brock Fearday was 10-of-14 from the floor, including 4-of-6 from behind the arc, and finished with 24 points.

“I’m proud of the boys and how them composed themselves down the stretch,” Rincker admitted. “This was a big win for us.”

It was the National Trail Conference opener for both schools.

The Bulldogs improved to 4-2 overall. They will return to action Tuesday. It will be another NTC matchup at Cowden-Herrick/Beecher City.