Pair of games result in a loss and an overtime victory for Lady Toppers

By Kelsie Hoitomt

The Glenwood City girls’ basketball team played on the road in Mondovi and then at home against Elk Mound last Tuesday and Friday.

Overtime vs Elk Mound

It was almost like watching a sectional game as everyone was on their feet and cheering with every shot made during the 56-53 overtime victory last Friday night.

The Toppers started off slow in the first half of the game as the score was 15-21 going into the third quarter.

The Toppers gained a slight lead going into the fourth quarter as they found their stride and were able to start knocking down shots.

The Mounders were able to catch up after Kristie Knops, Kelsie Knops and Olivia Weidling each fouled out of the game.

In a last minute effort, Jen Kopacz tossed the ball to Moriah Kuehndorf who put the ball in for a two-pointer to knot the game at 46-46.

Kopacz was then the overtime savior as she took control of the rebounds and then drained two three point shots from the corner of the arch. She was fouled in the final minute of the game and drained both shots to push the Toppers ahead.

Mackenzie Wink was the only other player to score in the overtime minutes with a two-point shot from under the basket.

Kopacz led the team in points with 17 from three deuces, three triples and was two for two at the line.

Kuehndorf played one of her best games of the season as she collected 15 points off of seven deuces and was one for two at the foul line.

Also assisting in the Hilltoppers’ victory was team captain Janessa Ullom with nine points from three deuces and she was three for four at the line. Fellow senior Kelsie Knops scored six points from two deuces and was two for four at the line. Rachel Klatt suffered a knee injury, but was still able to score five points prior to being taken out and Kristie Knops had four points.

“The girls’ focus and effort was much better. I reminded them of how much fun it was to play when they were little kids, before there were expectations and they felt any pressure to perform well. Just to play as hard as you can and have fun again. I am very proud and happy for them,” shared coach Justin Kuehndorf of the team’s overtime performance versus their game against Mondovi.

Crushed in Mondovi

The Hilltoppers had a rough game in Mondovi last Tuesday night as the Buffaloes crushed them 62-29.

The Hilltoppers appeared to be half asleep on the court as they were just not able to keep up with the undefeated Buffaloes.

Kuehndorf was the team’s leading scorer with 14 points from seven two-point shots.

Jennifer Kopacz had nine points for the team with three deuces and one triple. Also scoring were Olivia Weidling with four points and Renita McCluskey had one two-point basket.

The Toppers scored eight points in the first quarter, four points in the second quarter, six points in the third and 11 points in the fourth.