High School Sports Roundup: Intense Battles on the Basketball Court and Wrestling Mats

Welcome sports enthusiasts, to an exhilarating journey into the world of high school athletics. This week’s roundup brings you gripping basketball encounters, fierce wrestling matches, and the determination of cheerleading and dance teams as they prepare for the state championships.

Gig Harbor Boys Basketball Falls Short in Close Contest

The Gig Harbor Tides boys basketball team faced a formidable challenge against Timberline Blazers on Wednesday, January 24, ultimately losing by a narrow margin of 49-47. The game witnessed a thrilling finish, with Gig Harbor’s Michael Masini attempting a three-pointer with just four seconds remaining. The shot looked promising, but it unfortunately bounced off the rim, dashing the Tides’ hopes for a last-minute victory.

In the opening quarter, Timberline took an early lead, establishing a 15-4 advantage. Gig Harbor’s shots seemed to lack accuracy, despite several attempts from close range. However, the Tides regrouped and relied on their defense and the impressive shooting of senior Drake Matthies. Matthies drained several outside shots, contributing 10 points to Gig Harbor’s tally.

As the game progressed, Gig Harbor gradually chipped away at Timberline’s lead. With determination, they managed to take a brief 41-40 advantage thanks to Cole Browne’s driving bucket and successful free throw. Browne led the Tides in scoring with 11 points.

In the final moments of the game, Gig Harbor found themselves down by two points and coach Billy Landram called for an out-of-bounds play designed for Browne. However, Timberline’s defense executed a double-team on Browne, leaving Masini open on the wing. Masini stepped up to take the potential game-winning shot, but it ultimately missed the mark.

Masini finished the game with 10 points, while sophomore Quentin Bockhorn contributed 9 points to Gig Harbor’s total. Despite the loss, the Tides’ defense remained a highlight, showcasing their ability to limit open shots and rebound effectively. However, the team recognized the need to start games with more intensity to avoid falling behind early.

Peninsula Boys Struggle Against League Leaders

The Peninsula Seahawks boys basketball team faced a formidable opponent in North Thurston Rams on January 24, resulting in a 75-34 defeat. North Thurston’s Ray Adams dominated the paint, showcasing his athleticism with five first-half dunks and scoring a total of 20 points.

Despite being outmatched, the Seahawks displayed resilience and refused to surrender. Adams, the likely conference MVP, controlled the interior and repeatedly soared over the rim, showcasing his dominance.

Isaac Schultz-Tait led the Seahawks in scoring with 13 points, while Cole Muilenburg added 8 points and 4 rebounds to the team’s tally. The Peninsula boys continued their season with a game against River Ridge on January 26, followed by crucial matchups against Timberline and Gig Harbor next week.

Gig Harbor Girls Put Up a Strong Fight Against Timberline

The Gig Harbor Tides girls basketball team gave the No. 7 Timberline Blazers a run for their money on January 24, ultimately losing by a score of 62-55. The Tides displayed impressive early leads, led by the smooth shooting of senior guard Taylor Schwab. Schwab, who recently surpassed the 1,000-point career scoring mark, contributed 19 points and 5 rebounds despite facing intense defensive pressure from the Blazers.

Gig Harbor’s momentum was temporarily halted when freshman rebounding machine Willow Bonnici picked up two fouls in the second period, forcing her to sit on the bench. The Tides maintained their aggressive defense in the first half, with senior Alex Ferrier closely guarding Timberline’s top player. Finley Wyman, a junior, made valuable contributions on both ends of the court. Upon returning in the second half, Bonnici finished with an impressive 14 rebounds and 9 points.

The Tides received solid support from their bench players. Center Beverly Dover provided strong defense and hit a crucial late three-pointer, while freshman Ashlyn Pierce made an impact with 4 points, 3 steals, 3 assists, and 3 rebounds in limited playing time.

Timberline’s fast-paced style of play affected Gig Harbor’s offense, leading to costly turnovers in the fourth quarter. Despite their efforts, the Blazers managed to pull away in the final minutes, securing the road victory. The Tides faced Capital on January 26 before returning home next week for games against North Thurston and Peninsula.

Peninsula Girls Fall in Competitive Game Against Unbeaten North Thurston

The Peninsula Seahawks girls basketball team faced the undefeated North Thurston Rams on the road, resulting in a 53-42 loss. Despite the challenge, the Seahawks remained competitive throughout the game, staying within four to six points of the No. 6 team in the state for most of the contest. They trailed by only five points at halftime.

However, a few defensive lapses allowed the Rams to extend their lead. Coach Hannah Lekson acknowledged the competitive nature of the game, praising her team’s effort and fight. She expressed pride in their performance, particularly highlighting Kaylia Heidelberg’s scoring potential. Heidelberg led the Seahawks with 17 points, including a clutch three-pointer that kept the game close.

Heidelberg recently reached the 1,000-point career scoring mark in an earlier win against Central Kitsap, a remarkable achievement considering she did not play as a freshman. Grace Richardson contributed 14 points and 9 rebounds, along with solid defense against North Thurston’s leading scorer.

The Seahawks secured a playoff spot and aimed to earn the SSC’s third position in their remaining three games. They hosted River Ridge on January 26 before crucial road games at Timberline and Gig Harbor to conclude the regular season.

League Wrestling Showdown: Peninsula vs. Yelm

The Peninsula Seahawks wrestling team, with a record of 4-1, faced a significant challenge on January 26 when they hosted conference rival Yelm, who boasted an undefeated 5-0 record. The Seahawks, known for their depth and competitiveness, were eager to secure a chance at the South Sound Conference crown.

Yelm presented a formidable test, led by their retiring coach Gaylord Strand, who has dedicated 50 years of his life to coaching wrestling at Yelm High School. Strand’s unwavering commitment to his athletes and the sport earned him respect and admiration. However, the Seahawks were determined to earn a victory for their coach, Gary Griffin, who has spent over a decade guiding the Peninsula wrestling program.

In the highly anticipated matchup, the Seahawks aimed to showcase their skills and determination, striving for a conference title. The event promised intense competition and a display of athleticism and sportsmanship.

Gig Harbor and Peninsula Cheerleading and Dance Teams to Compete at State

Gig Harbor’s defending state champion cheerleading team and dance team, H2Whoa!, along with the impressive cheer team from Peninsula, earned the opportunity to compete at the state tournament on February 2 and 3 at Battle Ground High School in Clark County. These teams had qualified through their exceptional performances and would showcase their talents against the best in the state.

Cheerleading is often overlooked as a demanding sport, requiring strength, balance, coordination, rhythm, flexibility, and nerves of steel. The participants execute stunts and holds high above the ground, demonstrating their athleticism and determination. Both Gig Harbor and Peninsula teams dedicated months of practice to prepare for the state championships, showcasing their perseverance and dedication to their craft.

Join us next week for another thrilling roundup of high school sports action! Stay tuned for updates on the wrestling showdown, the state cheerleading and dance competition, and more exciting events.