Comets Soar In 72-36 Win Over Rothsay

In yet another standout performance that underscores why they’re one of the top teams in the state, Hillcrest Comets Girls Basketball cruised past Rothsay with a dominant 72–36 victory. From the opening whistle, Hillcrest’s was fueled by more than a solid game plan and talented athletes. On any given night, any one of the Comets players can step up at a key moment to fuel the team to pull away. It reveals their incredible trust in each other and an unwavering resolve to band together for a common purpose.

The Comets jumped out to a commanding 43–15 lead at halftime before finishing off the 72–36 final score. Their defense was stifling throughout, forcing turnovers and snaring rebounds to create multiple second and third-chance opportunities.

Head Coach Hannah Clark applauded her team’s all-around effort:

“I thought our defense and rebounding was really good tonight. We crashed the offensive boards hard and gave our team many second and third chance opportunities.”

Junior Ella Knutson led a balanced attack, filling the stat sheet with 13 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and seven steals.

“Ella had a great all-around game,” Coach Clark said. “She continues to be so efficient with her shot selection.”

Elsa Retzlaff (20 points, six rebounds, four steals) and Ruby Peterson (11 points) provided outside shooting threats, while Elin Retzlaff’s 15 points and eight rebounds came from relentless drives to the basket. The frontcourt combined for key rebounds, with Emme Berge (6 boards) and Kate Olstad (7 boards) controlling the glass. Stella Moline added 5 points, and Aaveah Stender contributed three assists to go with 2 points. Natalie Maggert also got into the scoring column with two points.

Beyond the box score, this Comet squad is proving that the real edge lies in the character traits and disciplines they’re honing each day—habits that won’t just win basketball games but will provide a sturdy foundation for their futures. Their collective trust and resilience manifest in sharing the ball, communicating on defense, and picking each other up after mistakes. It’s the belief that, in any given play, anyone can make a difference.

With every game, the Comets reinforce their reputation as a top-tier program powered by camaraderie, commitment, and a daily pursuit of excellence. It’s a style of play and a bond of purpose that will continue paying dividends, not just in the win column but in the life lessons these young athletes carry well beyond their playing days.