Lady Comets Elevate Their Play as Postseason Nears

The Lady Comets are finding their rhythm at the right time. In a 75–31 conference win, Hillcrest set the tone early with a 30–12 halftime lead and pulled away even further in the second half. While the score is notable, the performance was actually defined by balance and efficiency.

Hillcrest assisted on 20 of its 28 made baskets, an exclamation point on the team’s growing chemistry and willingness to share the ball. That movement translated into strong shooting numbers, as the Comets connected on 44 percent of their shots overall, knocked down 45 percent from three-point range, and converted 75 percent at the free-throw line.

Ella Knutson led the way with 15 points on efficient shooting while also contributing eight assists and seven rebounds, impacting nearly every possession. Aaveah Stender followed with 13 points on an impressive 75 percent shooting night and added seven rebounds, continuing to provide a strong interior presence. Elsa Retzlaff scored 14 points, stretching the defense with three three-pointers, and added four assists, while Elin Retzlaff contributed 11 points, five rebounds, and steady free-throw shooting that helped maintain control of the game.

The depth of the roster showed throughout the game. Emme Berge and Stella Moline each added six points, with Berge creating disruption on defense with four steals and Moline helping facilitate the offense. Paisley Peterson contributed four points and controlled the glass with six rebounds, while Annika Bjorndahl, Brooke Swedberg, and Lexi Ewan each added points and key minutes that kept the team’s momentum moving forward.

Defensively, the Comets were just as sharp. Hillcrest finished with 35 rebounds and 14 steals while holding the opponent to 31 points. Disciplined positioning and consistent effort on every possession put the Comets in line for an impressive team-oriented stat line.

As the playoffs approach, the Lady Comets are showing what makes them dangerous: efficient offense, balanced scoring, a team-first mentality, and a defense that competes on every trip down the floor.