Comets Show Depth and Togetherness in 87–58 Road Win at Battle Lake
The Comets put their identity on full display Tuesday night at Battle Lake, earning an 87–58 road victory that showcased not just scoring power, but something even more important as the season progresses: depth, consistency, and a team fully committed to playing together for all four quarters.
From the opening tip, Hillcrest set the tone with pace and purpose, racing out to a 47–33 halftime lead and never letting up. The Comets followed that strong first half with another 40-point effort after the break, a testament to their ability to maintain intensity regardless of who was on the floor. Six senior varsity starters shared meaningful minutes with sophomores and juniors throughout the evening, and the result was a steady, balanced performance that never dipped.
Senior leadership anchored the night, led by Sean Berge’s 34-point performance on an efficient 13-of-22 shooting, while also contributing across the stat sheet with 13 rebounds, five assists, five steals, and two blocks. Lincoln Nash added 23 points and knocked down four three-pointers, stretching the floor and capitalizing on the open looks created by Hillcrest’s ball movement. Ethan Swedberg chipped in 13 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists, earning a double-double while continuing to show his versatility and willingness to impact the game in multiple ways.
What stood out, however, was how seamlessly the Comets rotated players without losing rhythm. Juniors and sophomores stepped into their roles with confidence, contributing defensively, moving the ball, and embracing the same standard of effort as the seniors. Hillcrest finished the night with 26 assists, a clear indicator of unselfish play and trust across the lineup. The Comets also dominated the glass, outrebounding Battle Lake 46–29, and converted 58 points in the paint, showcasing physicality and discipline.
Defensively, Hillcrest’s depth paid dividends. The Comets forced turnovers that turned into 28 points, collected 14 steals, and consistently disrupted Battle Lake’s offensive flow. Even as lineups shifted, the pressure remained constant, a hallmark of a team that understands its system and plays for one another.