Union's Chase Koshinsky takes to the air for a shot during the OSAA state playoff game against Falls City/Kings Valley Charter at Union High School on Feb. 23, 2024. Union took an early lead and won the game 59-27.

UNION — Union is making plans for quarterfinal play in the 1A state basketball playoffs in Baker after a 59-27 victory over Falls City/Kings Valley Charter on Friday, Feb. 23, in second-round play.

Defense was the key to a good start in this game as the Bobcats struggled early. Union held the Mountaineers to only nine points in the first half.

“Our defense never faltered,” Union head coach Odin Miller said. “Holding them to nine points in the first half was big for us as it took some time to get rolling offensively. Once we got in the flow, we made a strong run and put the game out of reach.”

The Bobcats led 28-9 at the half but scored only nine points in the first quarter. Union added 31 points in the second half.

Tee Ledbetter led all scorers with 19 points. Chase Koshinsky added 16 points with Trae Frank putting in 13 points. Evan Cloutier ended his game with 10 points.

“I am extremely proud of our boys. It was the expectation that we make it back to Baker,” Miller said. “It was one of our biggest team goals all season and now we have to put together a pretty epic run at state.”

Miller and the Bobcats start quarterfinal play on Feb. 28 with placement in the top half of the bracket. Seeded eighth, Union will start play in the Baker gym off taking on the top seed Crane Mustangs.