North Branch hosted Chisago Lakes in their section quarterfinal on Wednesday night.
This was the third meeting between the two squads, with the Vikings having won the first two. The Wildcats were coming in with some momentum having won their regular season finale, but the Vikings held home court advantage.
As the game began neither team was able to get into rhythm, in large part due to turnovers. Both teams struggled to hang onto the ball, whether it was travel calls, steals, or passes off the mark the ball was loose often. The Vikings were able to take an early lead but momentum was still up for grabs. The Wildcats kept the game close and when it seemed like North Branch would pull away, their defense made some key stops to keep it close. Near the end of the half, the Vikes were able to find a spark offensively. Whether it was three pointers hit from near half court or the second chance opportunities they gave themselves, everything was going their way. Their defense played just as well, creating more turnovers and grabbing what felt like every rebound. At the half North Branch was up 38-14.
North Branch's offense started the 2nd half right where they left off in the 1st. Executing at a high level and they were also able to control the pace of the play. Even though their offense was playing well, Chisago was able to come up with some big plays. They were able to get a few blocks and created some turnovers, which helped spark their offense. The Wildcats were able to cut the deficit down near 10 and it felt like they were starting to pull momentum in their favor. But North Branch was quick to answer and keep their lead at double digits. It was a battle to the end but the Vikings maintained their lead and came away with the win 60-45.
For North Branch the season continues for at least one more game. They'll play at Hermantown on Saturday at 1pm in the section semi final.
For Chisago Lakes, although the season ends, it's not as bitter of an ending as many other teams. They have no seniors and should return most if not all of their players for next year.
Congrats to the Wildcats on a great year!
Scoring
North Branch:
Ella Kuhlman 24
Johanna Bartkey 12
Maria Damiani 8
Katelyn Lattimore and Hailey Diaz 5
Isabella Folkema 4
Ashley Bistodeau and Annabelle Lattimore 1
Chisago Lakes:
Claire Beaver 11
Kayla Larsen and Annika Hall 8
Raeann Goehring 6
Mariana Cooksley and Madison Eagle 4
Lucy Asleson 3
Makenna Thorsen 1
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