The St. Regis boys basketball team had a special treat last week when they had the opportunity to visit the University of Montana’s Grizzly basketball team in Missoula. The boys attended one of the Grizzly’s practices on Jan. 3 and had a chance to talk with the coach and players. The also got to shoot around on the UM basketball court.

Tiger Nic Day, who is a sophomore, said they enjoyed the experience and the UM coaches and players talked with them about their future plans and how they are working to achieve those plans.

“We all learned something and it helped our team a lot,” he said.

Team members who were able to make the trip included Day, J.D. Booker, Adam Ball, Ryan Teeter, Ian Farris, Broc Wright, Zane Antos, Andrew Sanford, Jacob Jasper, Tanner Day, assistant coach Tim Yeager and head coach Jesse Allan.

“It was an interesting experience. I really enjoyed it, and the rest of the team did as well,” said sophomore Ian Farris. “It was nice to see a college team and see their work ethic and have fun while doing it. It helped show us that little intangible things on the court can mean all the difference. Even in collegiate play.”

The Tigers only had two returning seniors this season; Teeter, who was unable to play last year due to a torn ACL, and Jasper, who hadn’t played ball since junior high. The rest of the team consists of one junior, three sophomores and two freshman.

“We are young but they have been working hard,” said Allan in an earlier interview. “They should be a fun group to watch and they are motivated and eager to build something in St. Regis that will last.”

The Grizzlies, who are 4-0 in conference play, will meet Sacramento State on Jan. 11 in California.