Lady Raiders overpower Reardan

Off to a great start, the Lady Raiders basketball team won their 2021-2022 season opener Saturday at home against Reardan, 50-30.

LR led 10-8 at the end of the first quarter, then 25-15 at the end of the half.

They continued to dominate in the second half, leading 41-22 at the end of the third, and finishing the game with the 50-30 final score.

LR's defense held Reardan to only 15 points in both halves.

"First game of the season is always an interesting one, dealing with nerves, trying to find a rhythm," Assistant Coach Matthew Pleasants said. "Played against a good team that is bigger than we thought, and they worked hard."

"During the first half, we were dealing with nerves and being anxious," he continued. "Senior leadership provided some poise for us and carried us through the first half, with the assistance of the juniors. Allowed time for the sophomores to get themselves going since it was their first time playing in front of an almost-packed gym and dealing with the energy provided by the fans."

"It showed during the second half, once we were settled, as we started to walk the lead out and stopped making the silly mistakes you make when you are nervous."

Audrey Hansen led LR in scoring with 24 points and pulled down 10 rebounds, both offensive and defensive.

Zalissa Finley scored nine points and led the Lady Raiders in rebounds with 15 and blocks with four. 

Halle Albert provided six assists to the team during the game. 

The Lady Raiders were scheduled to play against Omak yesterday, results of which will be reported next week.

Their next game is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 10, at home in Coulee Dam against Tonasket with a start time of 6 p.m.

The next day, they play in Kittitas at 4:30 p.m.