The Stettler Wildcats senior girls’ high school basketball team travelled to Leduc this past weekend and posted a 1-2 record in the Christ the King tournament.
In their first game against Grand Trunk, the Wildcats lost a four-point decision, 53-49.
“It was a grind all the way through, with many fouls on both sides and constant issues with the 24-second clock,” said Stettler coach Charisse McDonald.
“It was difficult to get any flow or momentum, with that number of whistles and scorekeeper issues.
“We faced a defence we have never seen before, so it took a whole half to adjust. Playing in different conferences in the province, we see different ways of playing. All the teams we faced this weekend used defences we don’t usually see.”
Stettler came back from a 12-point deficit, but couldn’t finish the job.
The Wildcats’ top scorers in that Friday game were Dacia Gramlick, with 16 points, and Kelsey Fisher, with nine.
On Saturday morning, Stettler cruised to a 70-38 victory over Beaumont.
“After a slow start, we went on a 20-4 run and didn’t look back,” McDonald said. “Everyone hit the scoresheet.”
Leading the way were Gramlick, with 19 points, and Fisher and Claire Aspenes, each with 10.
In the consolation final against Redwater, the Wildcats suffered another four-point loss — 51-47.
“It was close throughout,” McDonald said. “Almost every loss this year has been by four (points).
“We continue to struggle with our inside game, missing several key layups in the final quarter.”
Fisher had 12 points and Gramlick added seven.
“We have seen a big improvement with our fast-break offence and man defence,” McDonald said. “Everyone is scoring in most games, which makes everyone a threat when they have the ball. We are fun to watch.”
In league play Tuesday night, both senior Wildcat teams were scheduled to host the West Central Rebels of Rocky Mountain House.