The Norwalk boys basketball team’s quest for a fourth consecutive state tournament appearance came to a close Friday evening, as the Warriors fell 48-40 on the road to Ankeny in the 4A substate semifinals, as aired on KNIA3.

It was a slow start offensively for the Warriors, falling behind 13-0 before scoring the first bucket of the game. Norwalk was able to trim the deficit to 19-10 by the end of the first quarter, and held steady in the second quarter for a 27-18 halftime deficit. Ankeny took firm control in the third quarter, leading by as many as 17 in the period. But a valiant Norwalk comeback attempt was stopped, partially due to a seemingly narrow rim, as the Warriors were unable to hit several good looks. Norwalk trimmed the deficit down to six in the closing minute, but the Hawks iced the game with free throws. Norwalk Head Coach Chris Larson says that his team’s effort was unmatched against a tough CIML squad.

Norwalk’s season comes to a close with a 14-9 overall record.

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