Over the first nine games of its season, the Dolores High School boys basketball team has consistently improved. Now, the Bears are starting to win some games.

Bears race past Norwood

Playing Norwood at home Jan. 16, Dolores combined efficient offense with fundamentally sound defense to beat the Mustangs, 55-47.

"We played a really good game," said Bears coach Larry Schwartz. "It was one of our best offensive games of the season. When we keep our turnovers to a minimum like we should, we can play with anybody."

Dolores turned the ball over a season-low 12 times and dished out a season-high 13 assists.

Junior shooting guard Jalen Balderama led Dolores with 18 points, three rebounds and three assists. Junior post Ben Lykins added 16 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.

"(Jalen) continues to have a fantastic season, and Ben Lykins was clutch down the stretch," said Schwartz. "Ben went to the line eight times in the fourth quarter and hit seven of his eight free throws."

Dolores led 15-8 at the end of the first quarter and 25-17 at halftime before holding on for the eight-point win.

Bears fall to Ouray

Traveling to Ouray on Jan. 17, Dolores was unable to match Friday's effort, losing 73-57.

Schwartz said his team turned the ball over more than 30 times, allowing Ouray to score in transition.

"The wheels fell off as far as turnovers go," said Schwartz. "Ouray runs a lot of transition, and they push the pace."

Lykins scored 19 points, and Balderama added 11. Lincoln Sackman led Ouray in scoring with 19 points.

Now 2-7 on the season, Dolores will play at Ridgway at home on Jan. 23. and Newcomb at home on Jan. 24.

"Ridgway has a good outside shooter and a kid that can penetrate," said Schwartz. "Newcomb has a couple of big boys in the middle and a good three-point shooter. (This weekend's) games should be good."