By Coach Doug Helm
The Montezuma Bravettes ‘A’ team hosted their top JH girls rival when Lynnville-Sully came to Monte on Monday, January 17.
Last year, the Hawks swept both games in 7th grade play. But, the Bravettes won earlier this year, at Sully, by two points.
And this one was a 34-26 Montezuma win.
Sully jumped to a 10-7 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Hawks were navigating the Bravettes’ pressure and scoring.
The Bravettes tightened up their defense in the 2nd quarter to take a 17-14 lead at the half.
Claire Erselius led the scoring at halftime with 11 points on a variety of drives to the hoop.
The early part of the third quarter was dominated by the Bravettes. With two minutes remaining in the quarter, the Bravettes led 25-16.
But, the Hawks went on an 8-0, run hitting two 3-pointers and banking a long 2 to make the score 25-24 late.
Claire Erselius hit a difficult up & under shot to give the Bravettes a 27-24 lead at the end of the 3rd. Monte showed good composure in the 4th to slow down the Hawks and win 34-26.
Montezuma shot 14-54 (26%) from the field, 0-8 on 3-pointers and 6-12 from the line. L-Sully shot 10-31 (32%) from the field, 2-3 on 3-pointers and 4-7 from the line. Monte edged the Hawks in the battle of the boards 33-32.
Turnovers were the big difference in the game. Monte had 13 while helping to force 28 by the Hawks.
Claire Erselius had a tremendous game with 22 points and 3 steals.
Sydnee Burgess gave the Bravettes a boost in the paint. She had 9 points & 6 rebounds. Chloe Snook played strong defense. She had 2 points & 6 rebounds.
Vivian Cook had 1 point. Lindsey Henry had 6 rebounds & 3 blocks. Haileah Eichenberger had 3 steals. Lily Ferry also had 3 steals.
The Bravettes A-team moved to 8-1 on the season.
Below are the upcoming games. All games start at 4:15. Come out and support these exciting teams!!!
Thursday, Jan 20: Game at home with Iowa Valley.
Monday, Jan 24: Game at Iowa Valley.