Comets Rise in Big Win Over Hancock

The Hillcrest Comets have been carving a dominant path through the Little 8 conference, and Tuesday night’s 73-66 victory over the Hancock Owls proved once again why they’ve emerged as a true powerhouse. Hillcrest showcased tremendous depth in the game, flexing on their game plan to seize the moment and outlast a resilient Hancock squad.

The action began in a flurry, as both teams traded blows throughout the first half. At the break, the Comets clung to a narrow 41-40 lead, with Hancock’s star, Karleigh Rohloff, showing her scoring prowess early. Hillcrest never flinched. Instead, they responded with a balanced attack featuring the savvy defensive play of Ella Knutson and the disruptive anticipation of Ruby Peterson, whose relentless effort on defense sparked crucial turnovers.

Comet head coach Hannah Clark reflected on the back-and-forth nature of the game. “What a fun night of basketball,” said Clark. “It was back and forth the entire game, and I’m so proud of how the girls responded to every Hancock run. The girls found ways to get stops when they needed, and they knocked down big shots.”

One of those big shots came courtesy of forward Kate Olstad, who found open gaps in the Owls’ defense at just the right moments. “Kate played so well for us,” Clark noted. “She found the gaps on offense, and her teammates were able to get her the ball. She came up with some big buckets in crucial moments late in the game.” Olstad finished with 16 points and six rebounds, underscoring her role as an unsung hero when the Comets needed it most.

Just as important was Peterson's composure and two-way brilliance. Her 17 points, six rebounds, and six steals gave Hillcrest a cutting edge on both ends of the court. “Ruby was outstanding tonight,” said Clark. “Her ability to anticipate on defense disrupted so much of what the Owls wanted to do. On offense, she shot the ball well, scoring three big threes.” Peterson’s perimeter presence stretched Hancock’s defense and opened driving lanes for her teammates.

Knutson, who poured in a team-high 18 points, also matched up defensively against Rohloff, forcing the Owls’ top scorer to work for every point. “Ella played so well defensively and made Rohloff work for every single basket,” said Clark. “Offensively, she knocked down three 3’s and also attacked and finished nicely around the rim.” That steady two-way impact set the tone, ensuring Hillcrest’s defensive intensity never waned.

Spreading the scoring load didn’t stop with Knutson, Peterson, and Olstad. Elsa Retzlaff added 14 points and three assists, while Aaveah Stender and Elin Retzlaff chipped in timely buckets of their own. Emme Berge’s effort on the boards created second-chance opportunities and helped lock down the paint during tense defensive stretches.

With the victory, the Comets continue to raise the bar in the Little 8, not just with their wins but with how they build character. Together, they’re gelling into a unit that can weather adversity, respond to momentum swings, and trust the depth and skill of the entire roster. Against a spirited Hancock team, Hillcrest proved that their ascension is no fluke. It results from heart, hustle, and a remarkable collective synergy—character on full display and a confident stride toward whatever challenges await them next.