By Stephanie Zwick
Photos By Teresa O’Dwyer
https://limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-BBB-vs-Byers
https://limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-BBB-vs-Fowler
February 13 is often considered unlucky for the superstitious, but for the Badgers facing the Byers Bulldogs, it turned out to be a fortunate night. The Badgers and Bulldogs have a longstanding rivalry, especially now since several former Bishop Machebeuf players joined Byers this year, making this matchup particularly meaningful. Last season, the Badgers were defeated by both Byers and Bishop Machebeuf, so this game offered a chance for redemption.
From start to finish, this game was anything but easy. The Limon Badger boys showed their trademark never-quit attitude right up to the final buzzer. In the first quarter, Aiden Kollath drained a crucial three-pointer, while Daniel Forristall and Jacob Jaklich each added a basket. John Bee, whom I affectionately call “Big B,” scored six points for the Badgers. Drey Tacha added a free throw, bringing their first-quarter total to 14 points. The Badgers’ tough defense, quick hands, and fast feet held the Bulldogs to just 11 points in the opening quarter.
The second quarter was less productive for the Badgers, with Joe White being the only scorer, making two baskets. Despite allowing 15 points, the Badgers’ defense remained relentless. As halftime approached and the excitement built, the Bulldogs led 28 to 18. Climbing back from a ten-point deficit would not be easy, but with the entire second half ahead, the Badgers could regroup and strategize.
In the third quarter, the Badgers quickly shifted momentum. Jacob Jaklich knocked down a beautiful three-pointer. Although Jaklich doesn’t shoot often, his shots are always impactful. Joe White contributed a basket, and Keagan Mellott went on a scoring spree, racking up 11 points in the quarter. Daniel Forristall added a free throw, bringing the Badgers’ third-quarter total to 17 points. The Bulldogs answered with 15 points of their own, keeping the game close.
The fourth quarter was intense. Drey Tacha and Camdyn Tacha each sank three-pointers. Kollath, Drey Tacha, Daniel Forristall, and Keagan Mellott added baskets and free throws, totaling 20 points for the Badgers. The Bulldogs scored 11 points in the final quarter, but in the closing seconds, the Badgers pulled ahead to win 55 to 52. It was an exceptionally exciting and physical contest between two talented teams.
Saturday’s Valentine’s Day game against the Grizzlies picked up right where Friday night’s drama left off. The Badgers got off to a fast start as Kollath found his rhythm, hitting two three-pointers. Forristall dominated under the basket, scoring eight points. Mellott added two free throws and a basket, giving the Badgers 18 points in the first quarter. The Grizzlies kept pace, scoring 16 points with Salvo landing three threes and two baskets.
The second quarter was just as exciting. Keagan Mellott and Aiden Kollath contributed baskets for six points, and Mellott’s three-pointer brought the crowd to its feet. The Badgers’ defense worked hard against the Grizzlies, who managed to put up 12 points, including another three-pointer from Salvo. At halftime, the Grizzlies led 28 to 27.
The third quarter brought a decisive shift for the Badgers. Brooks Scherrer and Joe White each hit three-pointers, while Mellott, Jaklich, Bee, White, Kollath, and Drey Tacha all scored baskets. Kollath and Tacha also added free throws, giving the Badgers a total of 28 points in the quarter. Their strong defense held Salvo and the rest of the Grizzlies to just 4 points.
In the fourth quarter, younger Badgers players got valuable playing time. Brooks Scherrer, Joe White, John Bee, Camdyn Tacha, Cash Bee, Macael Berry, and Quentin Blatnick combined for a total of 15 points. The Grizzlies managed only 3 points, sealing a dominant win for the Badgers.
Looking ahead, the Badgers will host the Stratton Eagles on Friday, February 20th at 4:00 PM, followed by a home game against Evangeline Christian Academy (ECA) on Saturday, February 21st at 3:00 PM. Fans are encouraged to come support the team as they build on their recent momentum.