By Stephanie Zwick
Photos by Teresa O’Dwyer
https://limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-GBB-vs-Byers
https://limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-GBB-vs-Fowler
As the season nears closer to the end, the Lady Badgers continue to play with energy and grit, eager to secure a win, though victory still eludes them. Friday’s matchup against the Byers Lady Bulldogs highlighted their progress and determination. The Badgers executed crisp passes and made notable strides breaking the press, keeping the game competitive from the start.
In the opening quarter, the Lady Badgers spent more time at the free throw line than taking field goals, yet they managed to score three baskets thanks to Braelyn Malcom and Emma Coonts. Additional points came from free throws by Sydney Richardson, Malcom Stone, and Mellott. Altogether, the Badgers tallied 14 points, edging out the Byers Bulldogs by one at the end of the first quarter.
Moving into the second quarter, the Badgers found success in transition, making smart choices with their passing and avoiding defensive traps. Their aggressive drives to the hoop paid off, and even when they trailed by seven, they rallied to keep the game within reach.
Despite their efforts, the Badgers managed to score only 6 points in the second quarter, courtesy of Mellott, Ravenkamp, and Malcom. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs’ offense surged, adding 18 points and giving Byers a 31–20 lead at halftime.
The Badgers returned from halftime determined to close the gap, narrowing the deficit to six before the Bulldogs extended their lead back to ten. The team adjusted well, favoring balanced passes over risky overhead throws, which had previously resulted in turnovers. Unfortunately, reverting to overhead passes allowed Byers to generate more steals and maintain control.
Throughout the third quarter, the Lady Badgers maintained their aggressive approach and demonstrated improved defense. Malcom and Stone each sank three-pointers, contributing to the team’s 14-point effort, which included baskets and free throws. The Bulldogs responded with 13 points, pushing their lead further despite the Badgers’ strong performance.
In the final quarter, Stone scored another three-pointer, Molly Weinstoer found the basket, and Mellott and Denne added free throws. The Lady Badgers showed marked improvement, displaying resilience and teamwork throughout the game. However, despite their efforts, they fell to the Bulldogs by a score of 42–60.
The following day, the Lady Badgers faced the Fowler Grizzlies in search of a positive result, but the game didn’t deliver the Valentine’s Day gift they had hoped for. Emphasizing defensive intensity, the Badgers held the Grizzlies to just 9 points in the first quarter, though they managed only 2 points themselves, both scored by Paige Denne. Their resolve remained strong heading into the second period.
In the second quarter, the Badgers began to dissect the Grizzlies’ defense. Audra Kollath, Richardson, and Ravenkamp each found the basket, while Richardson, Coonts, and Mellott contributed at the free throw line, adding 13 points to the tally. The Grizzlies, however, caught fire from three-point range, sinking five shots and two baskets for a total of 19 points. By halftime, Fowler led 28–15.
The third quarter saw renewed focus and chemistry from the Badgers. Richardson, Peterson, and Malcom each scored from the field, while Richardson, Malcom, and Weinstoer added free throws for a total of 10 points. Defensively, the Badgers were stout, holding the Grizzlies to just six points and shifting momentum in their favor as they entered the final period.
In the fourth quarter, Braelyn Malcom stepped up, scoring eight points, with Richardson adding four and Kollath and Mellott each making a free throw. The Badgers put up 14 points in the quarter and limited the Grizzlies to nine, closing the gap and finishing with a narrow 39–43 loss—a result that, while disappointing, showed significant growth.
Across these two games, the Lady Badgers displayed noticeable improvement, teamwork, and perseverance. Their progress is evident, and the team continues to grow, shining in ways that go beyond the scoreboard.
Looking ahead, the Lady 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.