Comets Bounce Back with Commanding Performance, Showcasing Resiliency

After two tough losses, the Comets proved they are a team built for the long haul, storming back with a dominant 63-47 victory over Rothsay. Fueled by a relentless defensive effort and a standout performance from Elin Retzlaff, the Comets demonstrated that resilience is forged through challenge, and their response was nothing short of inspiring.

From the opening whistle, Hillcrest set the tone with aggressive defense and high-energy play, limiting Rothsay to just 20 points at halftime while putting up 44 of their own. Head coach Hannah Clark credited the team’s defensive intensity as a key factor in their resurgence. "I thought their defensive intensity was much better than it had been the last couple of games," she remarked.

One of the night’s most impressive performances came from Retzlaff, who notched a dominant double-double with 25 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, and seven steals. Her ability to impact both ends of the floor was crucial in Hillcrest’s commanding win. "Elin had a big night," Clark noted, emphasizing the way her all-around game helped steady the team.

But this win wasn’t just about one player, it was about a group of Comets stepping up in big ways. Kate Olstad added 11 points, while Ruby Peterson stuffed the stat sheet with 10 points, six rebounds, and six steals. Elsa Retzlaff chipped in nine points and seven rebounds, continuing to be a steady presence. Aaveah Stender and Stella Moline rounded out the scoring with key contributions as well.

The defensive effort was another storyline of the night, particularly the work of Brooke Swedberg, who took on the tough assignment of guarding Rothsay’s top scorer. By limiting her looks and making every shot difficult, Swedberg’s tenacity helped disrupt Rothsay’s offensive rhythm, paving the way for Hillcrest’s transition game to shine.

This bounce-back win signals more than just a tally in the victory column, it shows the muscle of resiliency being built within this team. The Comets are learning how to respond to adversity, how to stay locked in on their goals, and how to trust the process of growing together. With the playoffs looming, these lessons in fortitude will serve them well.