Lady Panthers maintain intensity

By Jason Arndt

Staff Writer

The Wilmot Panthers continue their scorching stretch, producing their third straight girls basketball win of the season following a 59-52 decision against visiting Shoreland Lutheran last Thursday.

Wilmot Union High School, led senior Sam Kirk’s 23 points, trailed 31-25 entering halftime, but took advantage of shorthanded Pacers squad.

“We were able to make some adjustments at halftime, both on offense and defense and the girls did a great job,” said coach Keiya Square. “Shoreland didn’t play a lot of girls and our pressure started to wear them out.”

Kirk, who converted 11 of 12 free throws, produced her third straight game scoring in double figures.

The senior guard attributed her success to more off season conditioning with her AAU squad, Wisconsin Impact.

“What I did over the summer, was playing with better teams, and along with better players,” said Kirk, who also had five rebounds and two steals.

Square noted Kirk’s ability to draw contact when approaching the lane.

“We were able to push the tempo down the stretch and she can get to the lane and draw a foul or set up a teammate,” Square said. “She is also hard to deny the ball so at the end when they need to foul she can get open and get the ball.

Wilmot also received a stellar performance by senior Olivia Klahs, who scored 15 points, collected six rebounds and blocked two shots.

Kirk noted Klahs’ fearlessness in the paint for her improved performance this year.

“Olivia is taking it to the basket a lot better this year, she is strong and can take pressure,” Kirk said. “She can also take the outside shot when she needs to.”

“I thought Liv played great,” Square said. “She is asked to defend the other teams best player each night.”

Defensively, the Panthers were led by junior Delaney Sjong’s eight rebounds. She also contributed eight points.

Senior guard/forward Ellie Turner contributed two assists with two steals.

After a game against Lake Geneva Badger this week, the Panthers will host winless Elkhorn, before taking a road test against non conference opponent Waukesha North Dec. 15.

Square acknowledged the Elks are a different team, citing a new coach, but will review the game tape in preparation for Elkhorn.

Constant improvement is key for the Panthers success on the road against the Northstars.

“This will be our first road game, so that will present its own challenges,” Square said. “We need to keep getting better and take care of our first two conference games, and then focus in on Waukesha North.”

 


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