FORT PIERRE — Nothing is sure except death and taxes. And perhaps the White River Tigers qualifying for the Class “B” State boys’ basketball tournament.

The Tigers earned their 19th straight ticket to this year’s “B” Tuesday night, on the strength of a 65-47 win over a pesky Highmore-Harrold Pirates ball club, at the Stanley County High School gymnasium.

White River never trailed in the ballgame, and held a 16-8 lead after the first quarter.

The Pirates, which finish the year with a 13-10 mark, stayed close and got a late three pointer to trail by only six at the half, 28-22.

White River opened a bit of daylight in the third quarter, as the pressure defense employed by the Tigers began to create turnovers and easy baskets in transition as they took a 51-38 lead to the final stanza.

A quick 6-2 run gave White River a cushion and the final five minutes of play revolved around the Tigers burning up the clock, before shooting - and often making - a three pointer to push the lead and secure the win.

Nick Marshall led White River, now 21-2, with 28 points. Evastine Wright added 14 and Jordan Uhlir chipped in 12.

Trake Cowan scored 20 hard-earned points to lead the Pirates.

White River will be the top seed in next week’s Class “B” State tournament in Aberdeen, where they will face Viborg-Hurley in the tournament opener at noon.