NM Girls Fall to Class 2A Schuyler County
NEW SHARON – North Mahaska opened the girl’s basketball season Nov. 22 when they hosted Schuyler County, Missouri. The Lady Rams used a strong second quarter and was able to hold off North Mahaska to post a 60-51 victory.
The game was close until Schuyler County was able to build a double-digit lead in the second period. North Mahaska battled back to close to a 34-25 deficit at halftime. NM closed to within three points late, but the Lady Rams used free throws to make the final distance.
The teams were fairly evenly matched except for experience. Schuyler County was senior dominated while North Mahaska sported a sophomore roster. NM Coach L.E. Moore utilized the services of a senior and freshmen. NM was tied at 12-12 after one period, but fouls mounted on the Warhawks, and Schuyler County took advantage with starters on the bench.
“That second quarter hurt us, and we just couldn’t make it back,” said Moore. “When you have a group of sophomores and freshmen going against seniors it can be tough. We had foul trouble, and we had some key players sitting on the bench.”
Sophomores Breckyn Schilling and Regan Grewe led the North Mahaska offense with 18 and 15 points respectively. Sydney Andersen added six and senior Jessica Castaneda chipped in five.
Schuyler County was paced by three players in double figures. Jacie Morris led with 19, Ashlyn Laws had 15 and Kaitlyn Hatfield finished with 11.
Moore was pleased with his team’s overall defensive effort. Although the defensive stats do not show the difference, freshman Aly Steil quickness and persistent effort had the Lady Rams swatting at her like a pesky black gnat. At least twice she picked up a forced turnover as the offensive players tried to slap her hands away.
“She brings a lot of good things to the table,” said Moore. “She stays on them. Jess (Castaneda) really came to play tonight and was another one of those difference makers. That senior worked her butt off.
“Their point guard is going to sign (to play college ball) and they already have two players who have signed. I am pleased with the way we played. We have to work to drive for the boards.”
North Mahaska was led in steals by Grewe with four and Schilling with three. Castaneda blocked a shot.
Moore was pleased with his team’s willingness to shoot the ball. They were 18-for-61 from the floor and hit 14-of-18 from the free throw line.
“Putting up 61 shots is what we need to do,” said Moore. “We shot well at the free line and that will help in the future.”
