Dominique Loyd, junior guard, had two monster games last week, scoring a total of 38 points, propelled the Pioneers past Lindbergh (66-39) and DeSmet (69-58) Tuesday, Jan. 6 and Friday, Jan. 9.

Loyd, current role player, known to friends as “sleep ‘nique” drained a total of 10 three-pointers in the two Pioneer victories. His nickname refers to his quiet personality on and off the court as well as his ability to come off the bench as a “sleeper” in key moments.

“After [senior guard Nick Matthews] got two fouls in the first quarter, coach called my name and I checked in,” Loyd said. “I came in with confidence and wanted to make an impact.”

A hard worker on the 20-5, JV team last season, Loyd brings a unique and crafty game to the floor. He stands just over 6’1” and weighs about 170 lbs. He can get to the rim and knock down shots from long range as well.

“His success has been a culmination over the last three years,” Bill Gunn, head coach, said. “It’s an exciting feeling to see it all pay off.”

The Pioneers started off the season in full force, winning the St. Charles Classic over a tough Fort Zumwalt South team in early December. The team now sits at 9-3. This weekend, the Pioneers host the Denver Miller Classic, where teams from Illinois and Kansas City will test the Pioneers abilities.

The Pioneers fell to Liberty North out of Kansas City (62-56), Thursday night and will host Hazelwood West tonight. Pending results, the Pioneers will play the winner of Eureka and Jennings this saturday afternoon.

“When we put this tournament together, the goal is to put together teams that will challenge us,” Gunn said. “We have a challenging schedule in the tournament. It will tell us where we are as a team and prepare us for conference play.”