Just five games into the 2019-20 boys basketball season, the Plains Horsemen have stamped themselves as a contender.

Paced by balance scoring, strong rebounding on both ends of the court and a relentless defense, the Horsemen moved to 5-0 on the year with a 66-38 romp over outmanned Charlo last Tuesday night in Charlo.

Led by senior guard Treydon Brouillette’s ball hawking ways, Plains jumped off to an early 4-0 lead and never looked backed. Brouillette’s first two baskets of the game came as a result of a smothering pressure defense that helped stake the Horsemen to a 6-0 lead less than two minutes into the game.

Powered by post Parker Flock and forward Kade Pardee cleaning the glass on both ends of the court that lead was extended to 16-7 after the initial eight minutes.

The second quarter opened with the Vikings mounting a brief, if not spirited run to cut the lead to 16-11. But with Pardee scoring six of his game high 18 points in the second quarter, most of them on layups and fast break opportunities, the Horsemen quickly offset the Vikings effort. Plains led 34-21 at the half.

Rebounding dominance and aggressive defense continued for the Horsemen in the third quarter where they outscored the home team 20-6 behind the inside play of power forward Esvin Reyes.

After three quarters, Plains led 51-27.

The two teams traded 3-point baskets at the opening the final eight minutes of play but the outcome of this one was already decided.

In addition to Pardee’s 18 points, the Horsemen got 17 from Brouillette and 13 from senior guard Jake Weyers.

Charlo was led by Nate Clark’s 13 points.

Next up for Plains, following the Christmas break, is a home game against Sanders County rival Thompson Falls Friday, Jan. 3. They then travel to Darby for a matchup with the Tigers.