By Ian Ferguson
The Borderites won a close game at Cascade Christian December 29, and although it wasn’t a league win, the 49–42 victory is a sure sign of progress for the young team.
“Our youth has been very evident early on, but we’re learning the system and getting there,” head coach Ryan Pike said. “We’re starting to turn the corner, with fewer turnovers and better passing.”
With the win, the Borderites are 2–5 this season, and remain 1–1 in league games. Sophomore Josie Deming led the Borderites with a double-double and three three-pointers.
“She had a solid all-around game today,” Pike said. “Her three-pointers sparked us in the second half.”
Deming has been a high-scorer all season, and several players have stepped up to show leadership on the team. Kjirstin Larson and Makayah Veliz are two of those leaders, Pike said. On defense, Brynn Hallberg has led by example with an infectious energy.
“She reminds me of Breanna Chau last year. When she’s in the game, our whole defense picks up,” Pike said.
Freshman Ashley Dickerson was instrumental in Blaine’s only league win, a 54–49 win against Squalicum December 14. Dickerson scored 17 points and had seven rebounds. Squalicum led for much of the game, but the Borderites came from behind in the fourth quarter for the win.
After the win at Squalicum, Blaine lost at home to Burlington-Edison December 17, and then suffered a crushing loss to Stanwood on the road December 21.
“Against Burlington-Edison we were able to hang with them for a little while, and we kept the turnovers low despite them being one of the best teams in the league, so that was a positive,” Pike said.
Blaine will return to Northwest Conference action next week, with an away game at Mount Baker on Tuesday, January 5.
“We’ve made little improvements everyday, and that’s something you love to see as a coach,” Pike said.
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