By Stephanie Zwick
Photos by Teresa O’Dwyer
limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-BBB-vs-McClave
https://limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-BBB-vs-Crowley
https://limonsports.smugmug.com/2025-2026-Basketeball/2026-BBB-vs-Merino
The Limon Badgers face a whirlwind of basketball action this week, launching into a grueling stretch of six games in just 12 days. From fierce rivalries to emotional finishes, the team’s resilience was tested at every turn. The Badgers battled through their first three matchups.
The Badgers kicked off their marathon week against the always-tough McClave Cardinals on January 22. The opening quarter saw Limon struggle to find their rhythm, as several shots just wouldn’t fall. But the energy shifted when Aiden Kollath nailed two three-pointers, injecting life into the offense. Teammates Daniel Forristall, Camdyn Tacha, and Keagan Mellott chipped in, helping the Badgers put up 12 points by the end of the quarter.
Defensively, the Badgers worked hard to contain the Cardinals, who managed 19 points, including a few three-pointers that kept Limon on their toes. The second quarter mirrored the first, with Kollath hitting another three and Brody Scherrer adding a free throw. Despite their efforts, the Cardinals extended their lead, leaving the Badgers trailing 32-18 at halftime.
The momentum began to shift after the break. Kollath opened the third with another deep shot, while Tacha, Forristall, and Jacob Jaklich all found ways to score. The Badgers’ defense stayed aggressive, but the Cardinals answered with four three-pointers in the period. Limon refused to back down, and in the fourth, Camden Tacha drilled a crucial three, and the team continued to battle for every basket. Even as the clock wound down, the Badgers’ defense never let up.
Despite their grit, the Badgers fell 64-41. Still, their relentless defense and refusal to give up set the tone for the challenging week ahead.
With little time to recover, the Badgers hit the road to take on the Crowley County Chargers. This game was a nail-biter from the opening tip. Limon’s offense started strong, as Drey Tacha and Aiden Kollath both drained three-pointers. Forristall and Mellott added to the scoreboard, and the first quarter ended tied at 10.
In the second quarter, the Chargers’ defense tightened. Limon managed just five points, but their own defensive intensity kept the game within reach. By halftime, the Chargers led 20-15, and the tension in the gym was palpable.
The third quarter saw Joe White sink a big three, while Kollath and Forristall added key baskets. The pace quickened, and emotions began to rise on both sides—every possession felt critical. The Badgers refused to let the game slip away.
The fourth quarter was a showcase of heart and hustle. Kollath hit another clutch three, then followed with a basket, igniting the Badgers’ bench. Brooks Scherrer, Camdyn Tacha, and Keagan Mellott each contributed, but the true turning point came at the free throw line. With the game on the line, Daniel Forristall calmly sank three of four free throws, and Mellott matched his composure, hitting three of four as well. The crowd erupted with each successful shot, sensing the momentum shift. The Badgers’ defense held strong, allowing just 10 points in the final period.
When the buzzer sounded, Limon emerged victorious, 44-41. The players celebrated their hard-fought win, knowing their persistence and poise under pressure made all the difference.
Fresh off their thrilling win, the Badgers faced the Marino Rams on January 24. Limon came out firing, with Drey Tacha and Camdyn Tacha each connecting from deep, and Aiden Kollath adding buckets and free throws. By the end of the first quarter, the Badgers held a commanding lead, limiting the Rams to just nine points.
However, the Rams refused to back down. In the second quarter, they ramped up their defense and started hitting from long range. Kollath kept the Badgers ahead with a timely three, while Drey Tacha and Mellott worked inside, but the Rams closed the gap. At halftime, Limon clung to a slim 23-22 lead.
The third quarter was a defensive struggle. Camdyn Tacha hit a lone three-pointer for the Badgers, but Marino capitalized on turnovers and free throws to seize the lead. Each possession felt like a battle, and frustration began to show as Limon’s offense stalled.
Despite the challenge, the Badgers continued to fight. Kollath, Scherrer, and Mellott found ways to score, and Forristall and Mellott made critical free throws. Still, every time Limon threatened to pull ahead, the Rams responded. The final quarter saw the Badgers pushing hard, but Marino’s steady scoring secured their 48-38 win.
The loss stung, but the Badgers’ effort and determination never wavered. We know we can disrupt a lot of things this season, reflecting on the team’s potential despite the tough schedule.
The Badgers’ NBA-style schedule continues with more tough matchups. Next, they’ll take on the Simla Cubs on January 27 at 5:00 PM in Simla, then head to Las Animas for a Friday showdown with the Trojans on January 30 at 3:00 PM. They wrap up January facing Deer Trail on the 31st at 3:00 PM. With their fighting spirit and ability to rise to the occasion, the Badgers are poised to make some noise as the season unfolds.
