Comets Leaping into Playoffs with Confidence and Momentum

The Hillcrest Comets have been building toward this moment all season long. With every practice, every possession, and every game, they’ve been honing their skills and sharpening their focus. With playoffs in sight, they’re ready to take the next leap.

Tuesday night’s dominant 67-32 first-round win over Battle Lake was more than just another victory—it was a statement. A showcase of defensive intensity, offensive rhythm, and a team dialed in as they started their postseason march.

Head Coach Hannah Clark has instilled a mindset in her squad all season: play the best game possible, and the score will take care of itself. That philosophy was displayed as the Comets set the tone early with relentless defense, creating turnovers and turning them into scoring opportunities. By halftime, Hillcrest had built a commanding 41-18 lead, never looking back as they continued to control the game on both ends of the court.

Elsa Retzlaff was electric, draining six three-pointers on her way to a game-high 25 points while also swiping four steals. Elin Retzlaff added 18 points and four steals of her own, while Ruby Peterson put together a stat-stuffing performance with nine points, four rebounds, seven assists, and nine steals. Aaveah Stender (six points, five rebounds) and Kate Olstad (four points, four rebounds) made their presence felt in the paint, while Stella Moline (three points) and Ella Knutson (two points, three assists) added key contributions.

“We came out strong defensively, and that really set the tone,” Coach Clark said. “Our ball movement and shot selection against their zone was much improved from previous games. Elsa shot the ball incredibly well, and Ruby did a little bit of everything for us tonight.”

That kind of balance, effort, and execution is exactly what the Comets will need as they enter their “second season” in the playoffs. The postseason is a different beast, but Hillcrest looks primed and ready. Their disciplined approach and collective energy have fueled them to this point, and now they’re set to take their game to the next level.

The next test comes Saturday at 1 p.m. in Perham, where the Comets will look to continue their playoff push. If their performance against Battle Lake is any indication, Hillcrest is ready to keep marching forward, one game at a time.