A hot start, a tense middle stretch, and a composed finish carried the New Glarus Glarner Knights to a 56-45 boys varsity basketball win over the Barneveld Golden Eagles on Tuesday night at the New Glarus High School Gymnasium.

New Glarus entered the nonconference matchup riding momentum, and it showed immediately. Senior Tatem Stampfli won the opening tip and converted on an early second-chance opportunity, setting the tone for a dominant opening stretch. Junior Brent Weeden followed with strong play inside, scoring early, drawing fouls, and knocking down free throws as the Knights raced out to an 8-2 lead before Barneveld could settle in.

The Knights pushed the advantage to double digits behind interior scoring and rebounding, capitalizing on a clear size edge. Junior Nolan Julseth knocked down a three from the wing midway through the first half, and New Glarus appeared firmly in control with a 22-4 cushion.

Barneveld, however, showed why it has been one of the most consistent programs in its conference in recent seasons. The Golden Eagles chipped away with timely shooting, offensive rebounds, and steady free-throw work, trimming an 18-point deficit down to four late in the first half. New Glarus carried a 29-25 lead into the locker room, a far tighter margin than the early minutes suggested.