Berge’s Milestone Night Fuels Comets’ Dominant Playoff Win
Hillcrest’s postseason run continues to gain momentum, and Thursday night, the Comets delivered another decisive statement. In front of a lively home crowd, Hillcrest defeated Ada-Borup 70–47 in the second round of the playoffs, combining efficient offense, strong rebounding, and balanced scoring to continue their march toward a potential state berth.
The victory was significant for more than just the scoreboard. The night also marked a milestone moment for senior wing Sean Berge, who etched his name into the Hillcrest record books by scoring his 1,000th career point. The accomplishment brought the crowd to its feet and added an emotional highlight to what may very well be one of the final home games played in the Comet Gym this season, as both the boys and girls teams push deeper into the postseason.
Hillcrest established control early and never let it slip away. The Comets built a 33–13 halftime lead before continuing to apply pressure in the second half to secure the 70–47 final. The offensive efficiency was evident throughout the game. Hillcrest shot 41.8% from the field, including 7-of-24 from three-point range, while also converting 17-of-23 free throws (73.9%). Ada-Borup struggled to match that pace, finishing at 32.0% shooting overall and 19.0% from beyond the arc. Hillcrest’s ability to finish inside also proved decisive. The Comets scored 30 points in the paint, compared to 24 for Ada-Borup, while also generating 14 second-chance points thanks to their work on the offensive glass.
The Comets had multiple players contribute to a balanced attack, a sign of a team regaining its full strength at the right time of year. Lincoln Nash led all scorers with 21 points, shooting 6-of-11 from the field, 2-of-5 from three, and 7-of-9 at the free-throw line. Nash also contributed 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 deflections. Sean Berge added 18 points, shooting 8-of-15 from the field and 1-of-4 from three, while also pulling down 3 rebounds, recording 2 steals, and helping anchor the perimeter defense. Berge’s scoring output pushed him past the 1,000-point milestone, a testament to his consistent scoring ability and leadership over the course of his Hillcrest career.
The Comets also received key contributions from across the roster. Drew Fischer scored 9 points on 3-of-7 shooting, including 2 three-pointers, while adding 3 deflections, 2 steals, and 1 block. Kian Stender added 6 points, knocking down a three-pointer and converting 3-of-3 free throws. Ethan Swedberg contributed 6 points and 9 rebounds, helping Hillcrest dominate the boards. Micah Rasmussen chipped in 4 points, and Will Selvig added 3 points with a three-pointer off the bench. The Comets also saw strong defensive and rebounding support from Zane Holmquist, who grabbed 4 rebounds and played valuable minutes in the rotation.
Hillcrest controlled the rebounding battle, finishing with 40 total rebounds, including 14 offensive rebounds, compared to 29 rebounds for Ada-Borup. The Comets’ defensive activity also stood out, recording 11 deflections, 8 steals, and 3 blocks as a team, generating 12 points off turnovers, allowing Hillcrest to extend possessions and maintain momentum throughout the game. While both teams committed turnovers (Hillcrest 19, Ada-Borup 21), the Comets capitalized on those opportunities more consistently.