Wahluke girls basketball split weekend games

MATTAWA — The Wahluke girls split two SCAC East prep basketball games last weekend, topping Kiona-Benton, 44-37 and falling to River View, 37-27.

The Warrior girls had a hot fourth quarter and overtime from the free throw line at Ki-Be. They connected on 12 of 15 shots.

“It was a big win for us,” coach Brock Anderson said. “The first ever over Ki-Be since they joined the league in about 2007.”

Wahluke was led by the 18 points of Jackie Hidalgo. Kaylynn Bailey scored nine points and grabbed 14 rebounds.

“It was a real testimony to the kids’ heart and determination,” Anderson said.

Earlier in the season, River View ripped Wahluke, 82-50. Saturday the Wahluke girls stayed on the heels of the Bears nearly all game.

“This was an entirely different game, and we had a full roster this time,” Anderson said.

Wahluke played the December portion of its season without girls who were on family vacations in Mexico. Saturday’s team battled to the end.

Wahluke fell behind, 13-1, in first quarter but showed a lot of resolve in fighting its way back. The Warriors trailed by only three points at one point in the third period.

“River View was 12-1 coming into the game,” Anderson said. “So despite the loss, it was a sign that we can compete, even against the best.”

Hidalgo was excellent again, scoring 14 points.

Due to all of the weather postponements, Wahluke ended up playing four straight games against the top four teams in the league standings.

“We beat one of them and competed – very well at times – against all of them,” Anderson said. “I’m really proud of the girls and their desire and determination.”