Comets Shake Off Jitters, Open Season with Big Win Over Lake Park-Audubon
On Thursday night, coach Hannah Clark’s Comets stormed into their season opener against Lake Park-Audubon with a young team eager to make a statement. Shaking off early nerves, the Comets showcased resilience, grit, and a commitment to team basketball, securing an emphatic 70-41 victory. This dominant performance set the tone for their season and highlighted the joy and determination fueling their game.
Hillcrest wasted no time building momentum, charging to a commanding 34-16 lead by halftime. Their defense was relentless, and their offense succeeded on the back of determination, and simple contributions from every player on the roster drove the team. The Comets played for each other, focusing on their shared goal rather than just competing against their opponent.
Elsa Retzlaff led the charge with an impressive 19 points and four rebounds, carrying a determination to score that set the pace for the team. Ruby Peterson added 15 points and four steals, electrifying the court with her defensive tenacity. Elin Retzlaff contributed 12 points and a game-high six steals, keeping the pressure on Lake Park-Audubon’s offensive point of attack. Aaveah Stender anchored the team in the paint with 8 points and six rebounds, while Kate Olstad hauled in an impressive ten rebounds to dominate the boards. Ella Knutson filled nearly every category on the stat sheet with four points, six rebounds, six assists, and five steals, showcasing her all-around versatility and functioning as an anchor to the team.
Lake Park-Audubon challenged the Comets early, with Kendra Nelson leading her team with 12 points, but the Comets' cohesive play proved too much for the Raiders to overcome midway through the first half. As the Comets shook off game jitters they started to run away with the game, playing together and looking like a team having fun.
Head coach Hannah Clark reflected on the team's performance with pride:
"I was very happy with the effort and level of intensity that was carried throughout the entire game. The girls played unselfish basketball and we got contributions from everyone. We still have some things we can clean up, but overall our coaching staff was very pleased with the performance of the team."
The Comets’ hard work and determination were palpable throughout the game. Their unity and willingness to leave everything on the court spoke volumes about their approach this season. With this impressive opening win, Hillcrest has made it clear: they’re not just playing to win; they’re playing for each other.