Girls 13-1 after win in rematch with SedgCo

Following a big 69-34 home win over Perkins County, Nebraska, on Tuesday, Jan. 25, the Lady Dragon basketball team proved why they are ranked No. 1 in the state with a 44-35 victory at Sedgwick County on Friday, Jan. 28.

Even though Holyoke’s only loss of the season was to Sedgwick County back in December, Friday’s game is what counts toward the standings. “It was a huge win on the road,” said coach John Baumgartner. However, he said it’s likely that Holyoke will see Sedgwick County again in the postseason.

He said a confident Lady Dragon team got off to a good start Friday, going up 14-6 over Sedgwick County by the end of the first quarter.

Neither team wanted to take control in the second quarter, said Baumgartner. The Cougars scored five compared to Holyoke’s four, and the Lady Dragons led 18-11 at halftime.

Baumgartner said they would build up a lead, but Sedgwick County would come right back at them. Holyoke barely outscored the Cougars 11-9 in the third.

He noted that they learned from their mistakes in December, and in the fourth quarter the Lady Dragons were mindful to take care of the ball, use the clock wisely and make crucial free throw shots. Both teams put up 15 points in the fourth quarter, and Holyoke held on to its lead for a 44-35 win.

Baumgartner praised the team for its defense throughout the game, pointing out Elyce Talavera and Lauren Herman’s efforts. He also commended Kristin Vieselmeyer, Elise Krogmeier and Herman for their huge rebounds over Sedgwick County.

Vieselmeyer had a great offensive game Friday. The senior scored 27 points, including nine 2-pointers and a perfect nine for nine from the line.

Herman led rebounds with 13, followed by Vieselmeyer with 11. Herman also blocked four shots. Audrey Talavera and Elyce Talavera topped steals with three apiece, and Elyce Talavera had the most assists with seven.

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