By Coach Doug Helm
The Montezuma Bravette 8th graders hosted the North Mahaska Warhawks in a battle of the two top 8th grade teams in the SICL on Monday, Jan. 11
North Mahaska has a smart, physical team with lots of experience. When these two faced off in 4th grade, the Warhawks won 43-0. But, the Bravettes have worked hard and are an upcoming quality team.
The Warhawks jumped out early to a 10-4 lead at the quarter. Using good ball movement against their 2-3 zone, the Bravettes had their best quarter in the 2nd. Monte led 14-10 at the half.
The third quarter was very back and forth. Ellen Cook hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer to give Montezuma a 25-22 lead.
Both teams played tremendous defense in the 4th quarter. The Bravettes led late until Brecklyn Shilling hit 2 free throws to give NM the lead and the win 28-27.
The Bravettes struggled from the field going 10-42 including 5-22 from 3 point line and 2-4 from the free throw line. The Warhawks were 11-30 from the field and 0-1 from the 3 point line and 6-18 from the free throw line.
Montezuma won the rebounds 32-25 but lost the turnovers 15-12.
Ellen Cook had a strong game. She had four 3-point baskets for 12 points. She also had 4 steals and a block. Shiressa Wetering anchored the lane with 6 points and 11 rebounds.
Harlea Pargeon worked hard for 4 points. Kylee Larmore hit a 3-pointer and had 5 rebounds. Ava Pargeon had 2 points and a block.
This drops the Bravettes record to 2-2. They travel to Baxter on Thursday, Jan. 14.