Slow starts to both halves doomed the Oak Harbor High School boys basketball team in its 63-41 loss to Mount Baker in Deming Tuesday, Dec. 5.

“We had a slow first quarter and left some point off the board with some missed lay-ins and free throws,” Oak Harbor coach John Weston said. “After halftime, they jumped on us, showing more energy and seeming to want it more than our guys.”

Mount Baker blitzed Oak Harbor 18-9 in the first quarter, overcoming 7 points by Wildcat Ozell Jackson.

“We were able to play a lot better throughout the second quarter and make it close, Weston said.

Three-pointers by Matt Jones and Gavin Allen in the second period helped Oak Harbor stay in the game as the Mountaineers (2-1) led 26-18 at the break.

Mount Baker outscored Oak Harbor 17-5 in the third quarter to take control.

Oak Harbor poured in 18 points in the fourth period, getting 5 from Austin Boesch and 4 from Jackson, but couldn’t catch the Mountaineers.

“We had a solid fourth quarter, competing with them better down the stretch,” Weston said. “We keep playing teams and competing well for two of four quarters. We just need to put an entire game together where we are competing consistently.”

Ten different Wildcats scored, led by Jackson with 13; he also had 11 rebounds.

Gabe Salinger and Boesch finished with 5 points; Haven Brown 4; Dorian Hardin, Jones, Allen and Kevin Schuldt 3; and Terrell Crumpton and Brennon Ney 1 each.

“(Jackson) played his best game of the season so far, playing tough defense and adding a double-double,” Weston said. “We need this type of contribution from him more consistently, we know he is capable.

“Weston (Whitefoot) showed a lot of hustle and really contributed on defense.”

Oak Harbor (0-3) plays at Sedro-Woolley (2-0) at 7:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8.