Background
The Nestucca Bobcats entered last night's game with a strong 4-0 record in league play. The Knappa Loggers girls entered their first game since their loss to Faith Bible over a week ago. The Bobcats were looking to extended their lead in league play while Knappa was looking to build off of their good performance against Faith Bible and score their first win in league. Knappa was also missing Ariana Miller, a key player in their game against Faith Bible.
Summary
From the tip, Nestucca controlled the game. Their 1-3-1 press and 2-3 zone defense smothered the Loggers, who struggled to hit shots. Despite good ball movement and finding open shots, Knappa's offense struggled to capitalize. The only points scored in the first half were by Knappa's Hannah Dietrichs and Patricia Lebo who knocked down 4 free throws between the two of them. Unfortunately for Knappa, Nestucca did not struggle offensively. The Bobcats shot well from beyond the arch and made the most of layup opportunities. At halftime, Nestucca had knocked down 4 three-pointers by three separate players and led 27-4. Knappa came out with energy in the second half and scored a field goal on their first possession. However, Nestucca hit their offensive stride in the third quarter, putting in 21 points. Knappa switched up their defense all night. From man-to-man to an assortment of zone defenses but Nestucca adjusted and continued to build on their lead. The final score ended 56-16 in favor of Nestucca. The high scorer for Nestucca was senior captain Rachel Strober with 18 points. Deitrichs led the scoring for Knappa with 8 points.
After the game, Nestucca head coach Tevin Gianella said that he was proud of how his team performed and especially with Stroble who he "wished he had for longer [to coach]". He also said that his team is preparing for Friday night's showdown against Faith Bible.
Knappa looks to score their first league win tomorrow (January 14th) at Mannahouse Christian Academy.
Takeaways
Nestucca is a strong contender for the league title. Their outside shooting posses issues for other teams and their press is effective at creating turnovers. This helps overcome their height as opposing teams are not given an opportunity to set their defenses or run a comfortable offense. The trio of Hailey Knight, Rachel Strober, and Tristyn Harrison stretches opponents. Add the outside shooting threat of Lyndie Hurlimen and you get a team that makes a strong contender to Faith Bible. Friday's game against Faith Bible will be a test for both teams as the slightly different playing styles combat each other. The Northwest League will likely be clearer after the results from that game are in.
Knappa had an unfortunate first two league games. Due to cancellations, Knappa had the privilege of facing down what are likely to be the top-2 teams in the league. Despite their offensive struggles in the first half, Knappa continued to show that they will fight. Their ball movement was excellent last night and they have the majority of league play to score some wins and to put them in position to make a run come playoff time. They are a fairly young team that just needs to find their rhythm.
Post Script
If you saw someone that deserves a shoutout for their play, please put it in the comments so others can appreciate the good work being done by these players. Additionally, if there are any pictures that you took of the game you feel comfortable sharing, please share them to my email, lincoln.james.miller@gmail.com, and I will give full picture credit.
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