Comets Close Historic Year Celebrating Incredible Milestones
The Hillcrest Comet girls’ basketball team closed the curtain on a remarkable season last night, battling until the final buzzer against Underwood in a tough playoff matchup. While the final score read 56-41 in favor of the Rockets, the scoreboard does little to tell the true story of what this team has accomplished.
This season will be remembered as one of the most successful in Hillcrest history, highlighted by grit, leadership, and milestones that will be talked about for years to come. Senior standouts Kate Olstad and Ruby Peterson joined freshman Elsa Retzlaff in eclipsing the prestigious 1,000 career points mark, a feat rarely achieved by three players on the same team. Adding to her legacy, Olstad also secured her 1,000th career rebound, an accomplishment that cements her place as one of the most accomplished players in Hillcrest history.
Yet, beyond the individual accolades, this team was special because of how they played together. They weren’t just a collection of talented players; they were a bonded unit, strengthened by a senior core that led with heart and purpose. Olstad and Peterson set the tone, bringing energy and composure that elevated everyone around them. Underclassmen stepped up in big ways throughout the season, proving that the foundation they helped build will continue for years to come.
Facing a tough Underwood squad, the Comets found themselves in an early hole as the Rockets came out firing. Hillcrest trailed 21-37 by halftime, struggling to find their rhythm offensively. Though they mounted a push in the second half, Underwood’s defense proved difficult to crack.
Despite the loss, Ella Knutson delivered a strong performance, leading the Comets with 18 points and six rebounds. Peterson added eight points, two assists, and two steals, while Elin Retzlaff pulled down six rebounds to go with her four points. Elsa Retzlaff, Stella Moline, Emme Berge, Brooke Swedberg, and Aaveah Stender all made key contributions, embodying the team’s next-man-up mentality that defined their season.
As the final buzzer sounded, Head coach Hannah Clark reflected on the impact of her two senior leaders, who will leave behind a legacy of excellence, mentorship, and perseverance.
“This was a tough loss tonight, but I am so proud of the season these girls had,” Clark said. “We are so thankful for our two seniors, Ruby and Kate. They were great leaders and role models for the team, and they will be missed next year!”
The Comets close the season holding a school record 24 wins in addition to their second place trophy, a milestone that will be hard to match, but the team created a solid foundation for their growing program.