ACH girls triumph over Willapa Valley

COULEE CITY — The Almira/Coulee-Hartline Warriors secured a decisive 58-22 victory against the visiting Willapa Valley Vikings on Feb. 25. The non-league challenge at ACH's home court showcased the Warriors' growth and evolution under the direction of first-year head coach Nikki Strock. 

From the moment the game began, the Warriors set the tone with an aggressive defensive strategy that stifled the Vikings' offensive efforts. The team's intensity and cohesive play overwhelmed Willapa Valley, leading to a dominant first half that ended with a score of 34-8 in favor of the Warriors. The Warriors’ defense was key to the victory as they forced turnovers and limited the Vikings to just 22 points throughout the entire contest. 

“We wanted to come out with a lot of energy and intensity and set the tone right from the beginning,” Strock said. “Our girls executed the game plan beautifully, and I couldn't be prouder of how they performed on both sides of the court.” 

One of the standout players was ACH junior Naomi Molitor, who proved her mettle as the team’s leading scorer, contributing 13 points.  

Alongside her were senior Emma Whitaker and Freshman Mallory Isaak, both of whom played pivotal roles in the Warriors' offense, Strock said. Whitaker, the team’s sole senior, found her shooting rhythm at a crucial time, delivering a performance that marked her last home game. Molitor’s relentless energy and Isaac’s impactful contributions off the bench highlighted the collective effort that led to a successful outing. 

“Emma had a great game, especially considering it was her last time playing in our home gym,” Strock said. “It’s always special when a senior shines like that, and it was a perfect way for her to cap off her home career. Mallory has been an energetic presence for us all season, and she’s only going to get better as she gains experience.” 

In the second half, the Warriors maintained their rhythm, continuing to dominate in every aspect of the game. Strock emphasized the significance of ball movement and teamwork, noting that their ability to share the basketball contributed to the overall success of the team. ACH's scoring display featured contributions from multiple players, which underscored Strock’s philosophy of selflessness on the court. 

“We had a total of 58 points, and no one on our team scored over 13 points. That just shows how selfless our players were in this game," Strock said. "We were sharing the ball, and everyone contributed, which is what makes a team successful. It’s great to see everyone stepping up and playing their part.” 

Despite the impressive victory, Strock acknowledged that her team still has areas to refine as they move closer to the postseason.  

“We need to work on our offensive hunger,” she said. “It’s essential for every player to want the ball and to be confident in scoring opportunities. While we’re doing better, there’s still room for growth as we prepare for the next challenges we’ll face.” 

The Warriors set a goal to carry momentum into their matchup against Sunnyside Christian on March 1, where they hope to further solidify their standing and continue their successful run.  

“I’m so proud of how far we’ve come this season. It took time for us to find our identity, but I truly believe we’re peaking at the right moment, and we’ll be ready for the playoffs,” Strock said.  

    Almira/Coulee-Hartline junior Emma Brummett blocks her opponent from Willapa Valley during their game Feb. 25.
  

    Almira/Coulee-Hartline scores against Willapa Valley during their game Feb. 25.
  

    Junior Naomi Molitor steals the ball from Willapa Valley during their game Feb. 25.
  

    Senior Emma Whitaker watches her teammates at Almira/Coulee-Hartline score against Willapa Valley Feb. 25.
  

    Freshman Mallory Isaak scores a layup during the Almira/Coulee-Hartline and Willapa Valley game Feb. 25.