(Note: The photo of Kayden Kasemeier (12) accompanying this article is a file photo from the Feb. 7 Comets win over Waukon)

The Comets are two wins away from the State Boys Basketball Tournament.

Charles City (16-5) defeated Independence (8-14) at home on Monday in a Class 3A Substate 4 first round game, 71-33.

Round 2 is coming up Thursday, Feb. 23, again in the Charles City Middle School gymnasium. The Comets will tip off against Mount Vernon (15-7) at 7 p.m.

The winner will play either Marion (17-5) or Decorah (14-7) on Monday, Feb. 27, in the state qualifying game.