Freshman Lady Grizz bust tough defense

Freshman Lady Grizz bust tough defense

By John Bernhisel

The Rocky Mountain Grizzlies freshman girls pulled out a gritty 36-33 home win over Riverside on Tuesday, leaning on balanced scoring, tough defense and clutch free throws in a game that stayed close from start to finish.

Rocky came out strong in the first quarter, taking a 14–10 lead by playing smart basketball and limiting mistakes.

Brooklyn Larsen led the Grizzlies offensively, finishing with a team-high 13 points. She was especially steady at the free-throw line, going a perfect 5-for-5, which proved huge in a game decided by just three points.

“I am proud of how hard these girls work and they work really well together,” said freshman coach Jamie Cooley. “With only one sub, sometimes these girls are asked to go in and play a position they aren’t comfortable with.”

The Grizzlies carried a 22-17 advantage into halftime, but Riverside didn’t go away. The Rebels made a push in the third quarter, cutting into the lead and keeping the pressure on. Heading into the fourth, the outcome was still very much up in the air.

Rocky responded with poise in the final eight minutes, scoring 11 points to hold off Riverside’s late run. Sawyer Bassett finished with 9 points, including three field goals and a perfect 3-for-3 performance from the free-throw line. Kennedy Brimhall and Leah Haslem each added 5 points, while Annie Crosby and Daizy Weinand chipped in 2 points apiece.

“Without question, every single girl goes in and gives it everything she’s got,” Cooley said. “I really appreciate the effort these girls bring.”

Free throws were a difference-maker, as Rocky went 12-of-15 at the line. That consistency down the stretch helped seal the win and showed the Grizzlies’ composure in a tight road game. With multiple players contributing and everyone stepping up when needed, Rocky showed strong teamwork and resilience in a hard-fought victory.

Next up, the Lady Grizz will host Greybull Monday and Burlington Tuesday, with both games set to tip off at 6:15 p.m.