The Lake Mills boys’ basketball team hosted Newman Catholic Tuesday night in the semifinal round of the district tournament.

The Bulldogs easily disposed of the Knights, continuing their march through the postseason and earning a spot in the district final 79-56.

Lake Mills jumped out to an early lead in the first quarter and never looked back. After leading 18-9 after the first quarter, Lake Mills used a 22-point second quarter to head to the halftime break with a 40-21 lead.

It was more of the same story in the second half, as the Bulldogs outscored the Knights 24-13 in the third quarter and coasted through the fourth to earn their 21st win of the season.

Chett Helming led all scorers with 25 points. DaShawn Linnen had 19, Caleb Bacon had 13 and Wyatt Helming had 10. Bacon also contributed 11 rebounds, five assists and five steals.

Colby Groe led the team in assists with eight. Mason Fritz, Bennett Berger, Parker Rogstad and AJ Ramaker combined for 12 points.

“Our team defense was excellent,” said head coach Kyle Menke. “We had balanced scoring and played with outstanding overall intensity.”

The Bulldogs climb to 21-2 on the season and will take on the Eagles of West Hancock Thursday night in the district championship game. The winner of that game will advance to the substate game for a chance at the state tournament.

The Bulldogs and Eagles have met twice this season, with the Bulldogs coming out on top both times.