REPUBLIC — The Republic-Michigamme boys basketball team got off to a fast start this season by taking a 46-34 victory over visiting L’Anse on Tuesday night.

The Hawks’ John Wheeler led all scorers with 15 points as he hit multiple baskets in three quarters.

Teammate Tripp Lofaro added 11 points, including a 3-pointer, while Kenneth Ambuehl had seven, also with a trey.

Easton Foucault paced L’Anse with 11 points, also with a 3, while Kolyn Sweeney added nine. Each of those players had all but two of their points in the first half.

R-M opened an 11-7 lead after one quarter and steadily increased it from there, going up 26-20 at halftime and 36-26 after three quarters.

It was quite a clean game with the Hawks whistled for just six fouls and the Purple Hornets for 11.

The Hawks play again at 6 p.m. EST today and Friday, hosting Baraga tonight and starting a five-game road swing at Watersmeet on Friday.

Information compiled by Journal Sports Editor Steve Brownlee. His email address is sbrownlee@miningjournal.net.