Playing to a packed gym with high enthusiasm, the Gilman Pirates faced off with the Owen-Withee Blackhawks, the game up in the air until the final minutes of the second half.
Coming off their win against Number 1 ranked South Shore, the Pirates battled with second ranked Owen-Withee Thursday, March 4, the final score 40-30 in the Blackhawks favor. Pirates head coach Tammy Weir shared some thoughts on the season and individual players after the score was tallied.
“We started out pretty strong, had some close games throughout the season, a handful that were lost by 5 or fewer points,” she said of the season. “And then finished with a nice strong run at the end of the season.”
Of the team as a whole, Weir said that, “These girls played great throughout. They stayed positive and worked hard.”
Coming in for special mention were team captains Danielle Mann, Kayleigh James, and Claire Drier.
“Our captains kept the team together,” she said. Starting with Mann, Coach Weir said that, “We could always rely on her to help bring the ball up under pressure, rebound on both ends and finish at the hoop, while guiding the underclassmen.”
As to James, Coach Weir said that “We could put her on the opposing teams offensive threat and Kayleigh would shut them down, with minimal breaks needed. She just pushed through when she felt tired. She stayed after practice, put in extra time shooting and was always looking at ways to make herself better for the team.
As to Drier, Coach Weir said that, “She has the speed to stop any fast break and when we needed a bucket, she found a way to score under pressure. She helped out her teammates to be successful and made us a team on the court, on the bench and in the locker room.”
Weir said she was proud of what the team had accomplished.
“Overall, these girls pushed through and had a great season!” She said. “I am so proud of what they accomplished!”
