Comets Show Grit in Bounce-Back Performance

Coming off a tough loss last week, the Comets looked determined to re-establish their rhythm on the court with a commanding 71–51 win over the CGB Wolverines. Battling illness that forced different players into bigger roles, the Comets are now getting healthy and discovering a new level of play just in time for the playoffs.

From the opening tip, the Comets were locked in defensively. They held the Wolverines to just 13 points in the first half, charging into the locker room with a 36–13 advantage. Head Coach Hannah Clark praised her team’s effort, noting the strong defensive energy that set the tone.

“We had a good defensive first half,” Clark said. “Holding the Wolverines to 13 points was huge. It gave us confidence and kept our energy high.”

Offensively, senior guard Elsa Retzlaff made her presence known in returning from illness, pouring in 21 points and collecting nine rebounds in her first game back. “Elsa came back from illness and had a great first game back,” Coach Clark said. “She really provided the spark we needed.”

On the inside, Aaveah Stender notched her second consecutive double-double, racking up 14 points and 11 rebounds. Coach Clark highlighted Stender’s ability to find good positioning around the basket and capitalize on high-percentage shots. “Aaveah played well tonight,” Clark said. “She did a great job finding her spots in the paint and securing rebounds.”

The Comets’ emerging presence in the post doesn’t stop with Stender. Kate Olstad added 10 points and five rebounds, helping the team take pressure off their dynamic guards. By establishing a strong attack in the paint, the Comets are developing more scoring threats to match their perimeter play and share the offensive load. With Stender and Olstad controlling the lane and Ella Knutson set to return soon from injury, opponents must now pick their poison, clog the paint, or chase the shooters.

Point guard Ruby Peterson contributed mightily in all phases, finishing with nine points, five rebounds, nine assists, and seven steals. “Ruby controlled the game on both ends of the floor,” Coach Clark said. “Her passing and ability to get others involved is so valuable to our team.”

Rounding out the balanced scoring effort were Elin Retzlaff with 12 points, Brooke Swedberg with three points, and Stella Moline adding two points. The comprehensive team performance underlines the Comets’ depth, a trait they’ve developed over the past few weeks as players stepped up to fill gaps left by illness and injury.

Now, with the team regaining its health and discovering new contributors on the inside, the Comets are finding another gear in their drive toward the postseason. The renewed focus on defense and balanced scoring is the winning recipe carrying them through the season's final stretch.

After showing they can bounce back quickly, the Comets are eager to keep building momentum. They play host to Parkers Prairie February 6th.