NEWBERRY — The Manistique boys opened their basketball season in exciting fashion here Tuesday night, earning a 60-58 triumph over the Newberry Indians.

Newberry had the ball in the closing moments of this non-conference contest, but missed a half-court shot at the buzzer.

“This feels really good,” coach Cody Kangas said after his first game as Emeralds’ mentor. “I think we played a pretty good offensive game. I think it also shows we need to play good defense.

“We’re the type of team that wants to play tough defense and keep the score low. We’re pretty athletic. We can push the ball up the floor, but we also don’t mind slowing it down.”

Manistique led 32-22 at halftime and 46-44 after the third quarter.

Mark Block led the Emeralds with 20 points. Schyler Andersen added 17 and Sam Warren had 11. Logan Depew scored 21 and Luke Jordan hit 13 for the Indians.

“In the second quarter we played some pretty good team defense,” said Kangas. “I’m not happy with our third quarter, but I’m proud of our guys for finishing strong. I know Mark and Schyler have to carry the load on offense. Mark played a real good game. He’s a jack of all trades and it showed tonight.”

The Emeralds, who dropped the jayvee game, visit Gladstone Friday. The Indians host St. Ignace Friday.

Manistique 14 18 14 14 — 60

Newberry 17 5 22 14 — 58

Manistique — Block 20, Hoholik 6, St. John 2, Bilxt 2, Warren 11, Andersen 17, Dechow 2. FT: 0-2; F: 13; Fouled out: None; 3-point field goals: Anderson 3, Block 2, Warren.

Newberry — Depew 21, Jordan 13, Juorez 5, Smithson 8, Carroll 4, McPherson 2, Skidmore 5. FT: 5-6; F: 12; Fouled out: None; 3-point field goals: Depew 4, Jordan 3, Smithson, Skidmore.