The West Marshall girls' basketball team, fresh off a thrilling 51-48 victory over the fourth-ranked Forest City in the Class 3A Region 3 final on February 22, is gearing up for another high-stakes game. This time, they face the formidable top-ranked Mount Vernon at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. The unranked Trojans are making their second appearance at the state tournament in three years, and while they may be underdogs, their determination and team chemistry could prove to be powerful assets.
The Trojans have embraced the role of underdogs, particularly after their recent upset win. For the four senior starters—Bella Borgos, Avery Evertsen, Natalie Nichols, and Lily Zahnd—the opportunity to challenge the rankings is both exciting and motivating. "We have nothing to lose," Zahnd remarked. "We just need to play as hard as we can and maintain strong team chemistry."
Mount Vernon, returning to the state tournament after reaching the semifinals last year, boasts an impressive roster. Led by senior Chloe Meester, who averages nearly 15 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, the Mustangs have won 22 consecutive games since their only loss in December. Their well-rounded offense and solid defense make them a tough opponent for any team. However, Coach Cody Hackett of West Marshall remains focused on strategy. "We need to limit their strengths, make crucial stops, and control the defensive rebounds," he said.
West Marshall's defense has been a key strength this season, allowing just over 37 points per game. The team excels in steals and rebounding, with Zahnd leading the way in rebounds and Evertsen contributing significantly. The coaches have also played a vital role in preparing the team, using JV players to simulate opponents' plays during practice. Borgos, who was named second-team all-state last year, leads the scoring with 19.2 points per game, while Zahnd adds 11.3 points. Both were part of the 2023 state tournament squad.
The seniors are determined to make the most of this opportunity, setting a positive tone for the younger players. "It’s another game, there’s nothing to be nervous about," Borgos reassured her teammates. "We have confidence in each other and will keep pushing ourselves." Junior Halle Jones credits the seniors for their leadership and support, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and effort.
The winner of Monday's game will advance to the semifinals on March 6, facing either Estherville-Lincoln Central or Cherokee. As the tournament unfolds, the West Marshall girls are ready to give it their all. "They earned it, we got here," Coach Hackett said. "Now let’s see what we can do and give it everything we have."
The Wheeling Miners, champions of the AAL2 last year, are set to embark on a new journey as they join the National Arena League (NAL) this season. With their home opener scheduled for March 10th against the Colorado Spartans, the team aims to build upon their previous success and make an even greater impact in the Ohio Valley's sports scene. Head coach Josh Resignalo is confident that the increased competition level within the NAL will push his players to new heights. The roster features a blend of returning stars and fresh talent, including local standout Brandon Munoz. Off the field, the Miners have been actively engaging with the community through various initiatives, solidifying their presence in the region.
The transition from the AAL2 to the NAL represents a significant step forward for the Wheeling Miners. Last season's dominance has set high expectations for the upcoming campaign. Coach Resignalo highlights the heightened competition as the primary challenge. "The teams in this league are more experienced, and the coaching staffs are seasoned professionals," he noted. This change promises thrilling matches and a steeper path to victory. The opening game against the Colorado Spartans, who boast a seasoned squad, will be a litmus test for the Miners' readiness.
To prepare for the tougher competition, the Miners have fine-tuned their roster. Returning quarterback Grant Russell, who claimed MVP honors last year, will lead the offense. His leadership and skill set position him as one of the top quarterbacks in the NAL. On defense, the addition of Brandon Munoz, a former Wheeling University standout, brings local pride and formidable strength. Defensive coordinator Mott Gaymon, familiar with Munoz from his college days, expects him to make a significant impact. The balance between seasoned veterans and new faces sets the stage for an exciting season.
Beyond the playing field, the Miners have focused on strengthening their ties with the community. Initiatives like the Wheeling Miners Youth Flag League and the Reading Book Club demonstrate the team's commitment to giving back. These efforts have fostered a welcoming environment and garnered strong support from local residents. Resignalo expressed gratitude for the community's embrace: "This year, we've seen an overwhelming response, which shows our growth and stability."
As the clock ticks down to the season opener, anticipation builds. Special events surrounding the game, such as the debut of the "NAL Gameday" pregame show and appearances by former Pittsburgh Steelers players, add to the excitement. The unveiling of the 2024 championship banner will serve as a reminder of past achievements and fuel the drive for future success. Coach Resignalo looks forward to a packed WesBanco Arena, confident that the passionate fanbase will create an electrifying atmosphere. The Miners are ready to take on the challenges ahead and continue their winning legacy.
After a long hiatus from playoff victories, the Nicollet Raiders boys basketball team made a triumphant return with an impressive 81-35 win over Buffalo Lake-Hector-Stewart. The Raiders' performance showcased both skill and teamwork, leading to their first playoff victory since 2020. This success comes at a crucial time as they prepare for their next challenge against Madelia. The team's unselfish play and chemistry were key factors in their dominant performance, setting the stage for future successes.
A Night of Dominance and Team Chemistry
The Raiders demonstrated their prowess on the court with a commanding lead that began early and never waned. By halftime, they had already established a 22-point advantage, which only grew in the second half. Players like Keegan Hulke, Henry Kennedy, and AJ Kramer stood out with their contributions, combining for nearly half of the team's points. The atmosphere was electric, and the players felt the significance of breaking their playoff drought.
Hulke's leadership was evident as he led the team with 20 points and seven rebounds. His ability to find open teammates and hit crucial shots, including four three-pointers, was instrumental. Kramer added 12 points and provided solid support with five rebounds and four assists. Kennedy's 15 points and seven assists highlighted his versatility and passing skills. The Raiders' seamless ball movement and unselfish play created numerous scoring opportunities, making it a memorable night for the team.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Madelia
The Raiders now set their sights on the formidable task of facing Madelia in the second round. Despite previous losses to the Mustangs earlier in the season, the Raiders are confident in their ability to secure an upset. Their recent performance has shown that they are capable of playing at a high level when they stay focused and work together. The team's chemistry and unselfishness will be critical in overcoming the challenges ahead.
Kramer expressed optimism about the upcoming game, acknowledging the tough environment but emphasizing the importance of maintaining their current form. "It’s a tough team, tough atmosphere," he said. "They’ve always got rowdy fans, but I think it’s a winnable game if we just play our game and stay united." The Raiders' resilience and teamwork have been their strongest assets, and they aim to carry this momentum into their next matchup. With players like Hulke and Kramer leading the charge, the Raiders are poised to make a strong statement in the playoffs.