The Home Court Shines
What a way to kick off some SICL play - at home with a packed gym. Any time Montezuma takes on conference rival, North Mahaska, its a fun one.
Both North Mahaska and Montezuma filled the stands. The energy was hyped with the help of the MHS pep band and the whopping 9 cheerleaders.
The Bravettes kicked off the double header with a 48-32 win, then following was a win by the Braves 79-48.
Before the girls’ game, senior, Shateah Wetering was honored from her 1000th point in the opening game of the season. She was given a basketball with the achievement displayed proudly on it by Coach Janelle Burgess and was surprised by her youngest sister with a large poster.
The game started out with an intense battle of the defenses. If you could believe it, the score after the first quarter was just 8-6. The Bravettes got into a groove in the second ending the half at 22-14. Third quarter: 37-23 with an exciting last play being a quick pass from Shateah Wetering to senior, Shelby Conger with a layup and the crowd went nuts! You would’ve thought that it was a buzzer-beating winning shot. In the fourth quarter, the Warhawks attempted a comeback but couldn’t keep up with the relentless speed and intensity of the Bravettes.
Some standout players of the night for the Bravettes? Shateah Wetering, Maddy McKeag, and Elise Boulton. They. Can. Shoot. Wetering made 17 points, McKeag 9, and Boulton 13. McKeag is one to watch when she’s at the 3-point range. Boulton and Wetering help to set and keep the pace throughout with their skillful ball handling and fast breaks.
Between the Wetering sisters, the Boulton sisters, and the Shearer brothers - Montezuma has got some talented ball players with depth on their teams.
Speaking of the Shearer brothers, it was fun to watch them on the court together as freshman and junior. Another junior, Cole Watts and sophomore, Eddie Burgess were also huge in the win against North Mahaska.
Leading in points for the boys was Trey Shearer with 24 points, Cole Watts with 22, and Eddie Burgess with 14.
Here’s the breakdown by quarter: 26-12, 41-20, 66-32, and 79-48. The Braves never let up after the first tip-off. They do well with fast breaks, they do well at free throws, they do well moving the ball, they do well at the arc, they do well working as a team.
The Montezuma Dance Team also performed during the halftime of the boys game. They will be competing at state in Des Moines on Thursday, December 5th.
It’s definitely going to be a fun and memorable season watching these two teams. See them next when they head to Colfax Mingo on Friday, December 6th at 6PM.
