Bison girls really work together during big win over 'Maids

LEXINGTON, Neb. — McCook High’s girls were clearly ready to move and shake something other than snow after 11 days since their last basketball game.

On Tuesday, they scored nine of the first 10 points while never being caught throughout a 46-22 triumph over host Lexington.

Senior Kori Rippen set the tone with several of her game-high 17 rebounds while junior Brooklynn Gillen’s five assists, five steals and six pass deflections kept Lexington from ever getting closer than five after those first few minutes.

“Very pleased with how we bounced back after a tough week last week, love the resiliency,” coach Amy Scheil as McCook’s previous contest was a loss at Gothenburg on Friday, Jan. 5. “Kori (Rippen)did a nice job on the boards and getting the ball out quick for our fast break attack. The girls did a great job finishing around the basket.”

Rippen scored three early baskets with the third off an assist from freshman Cali Crawford for that 9-1 Bison start.

Moments later, Rippen took a pass on the low post and spun to spot sophomore Jaylea Walgen with another sharp pass.

Walgren’s finish made it 14-7, then the sophomore scored again thanks to great fast-break pass from Gillen.

However, McCook’s 21-8 margin soon dropped to 21-15 on two Lexington three-pointers.

That’s when junior Malia Hilker delivered the ultimate momentum-stopping finish.

Hilker batted a Lex pass near mid-court, spun and secured the basketball despite other players’ efforts.

The 5’7” guard turned on her softball center fielder speed and finished a huge lay-up just before halftime.

McCook continued a `15-3 run following the break capped on consecutive corner three-point bombs.

Walgren whooshed one corner triple on the left side of this hoop.

Crawford connected from the right corner to make it McCook 39, Lex 18.

McCook regained a winning record at 7-6 while Lex is now 0-12.

“Our second team gave our starters some much needed rest and filled in nicely,” Scheil noted as Walgren totaled 10 points. “Paige (Bortner) played a great defensive game putting lots of pressure on them without fouling,

Brooklynn did a great job pushing the ball down the court and getting our attack started while Cali and Malia got down the court quick and finished.”

The Bison get ready for a 5 p.m. game today, visiting 10-2 Minden.