RIVERSIDE

Continuing to find success on their home court, the Huskies built up a lead in the first frame and held firm the rest of the way, defeating Belle Plaine, 39-18, on Nov. 27.

While this was Highland’s third game of the young season it was the first game of the year for Belle Plaine. This matchup is only the second time these two teams have faced off against each other.

The Highland senior duo of Sarah Burton and Stella Slaymaker helped the Huskies jump out to an early lead. 

Getting to the basket quickly, Slaymaker scored the game’s first points which was then followed by Burton scoring the next four points for the Huskies. Slaymaker added two more points after Burton to complete a Highland 8-0 run. 

Belle Plaine was able to respond by going on a 6-0 run, and after one quarter of play they found themselves trailing by seven.

In the second quarter Highland only made two field goals, a two-pointer, and a three-pointer, but the five points they scored from the free throw line in addition to holding Belle Plaine to just five points, helped them maintain their lead going into halftime. 

Coming out of halftime the offense stalled for both teams. Between both teams three field goals were made in the third quarter. 

With two minutes left in the quarter Highland freshman Hailey Brun ended the point drought by connecting on a three-pointer and Belle Plaine responded by scoring twice, winning the third quarter 4-3.  

In the final frame Highland was able to regain its offense rhythm while staying stout on defense, outscoring Belle Plaine 12-2. 

Much to the delight of the Highland bench the final two field goals of the game were a couple of three-pointers made by freshman Katelyn Thomann.

Nearly flawless from the free-throw line, five for six, Burton ended the night leading Highland in points. She scored six of her team high 13 points in the first quarter. 

The second highest scorer for Highland is a three-way tie between two freshmen, Thomann and Brun, and a senior, Slaymaker. These three Huskies finished the game with six points each. 

Playing in their first conference game of the year, Highland went on the road to battle Hillcrest (1-1) on Nov. 28. Up next for the Huskies will be a home conference game against Lone Tree (3-0) on Dec. 1.