Another year filled with cancellations saw the Powell High School girls’ freshman basketball team finish just under the .500 mark for the season, going 4 1/2-5 (the Panthers won a game only played for one half) for the season.

The year started with a 52-17 win over Red Lodge, before a close loss to Rocky Mountain and another to Cody to move to 1-2.

The Panthers then defeated Worland 43-21 before losing by six to Cody.

Powell defeated Buffalo 22-15 in its half game, before a difficult loss at Lovell.

Wins over Worland 60-45 and Riverton 44-16 helped move the Panthers to a winning record, but a loss to Burlington by two ended the season.

“You look at our schedule, it came out a lot like last year, we had some cancellations due to other team’s numbers. Part of my message this year to the girls is we don’t make excuses,” coach Andrew Borcher said. “We had to really take advantage of every opportunity we were afforded. It’s a grind to have a season that spans like it does in high school and only play 9 1/2 games, but overall I think the girls handled it well and made the most of it. Every game we lost was close except for maybe our game at Lovell. We had some good battles with Rocky, Cody both times and our final matchup with Burlington.”

With it being their first year at the high school level Borcher felt the Panthers made the transition well, adjusting to the pace of high school basketball while adding to their game by the end of the season.

He said offensively the Panthers had some strong options and were able to take advantage of their scoring abilities, but feels there is always room for improvement on the defensive side of the ball.

“It isn’t always where the limelight is, but I’d say those hustle stats are what really stand out and make a team even better,” Borcher said. “I think our defense got better, but there is always room for improvement as far as guarding and then boxing out and taking care of the boards.”

Throughout the season Borcher said the Panthers were led in scoring by Aspen French and Addie Gillett, with Breiyah Bonander providing a strong presence in the middle and Taylor Sweet adding important contributions physically and defensively.

“As far as most improved, I thought our post players Reagan Clifford and Autumn Allred improved nicely this year along with our guard/wing players in Addy Kelley and Bentley Streeter,” Borcher said. 

Moving forward, Borcher said his message for the team to improve remains the same.

“I always say the game teaches the game. As they continue to grow and play those defensive skill sets will come along,” he said. “Offensively, they need more time and experience competing and then also putting some time in on individual skills as well. Becoming stronger with the ball and creating more opportunities to score the ball.”

Borcher said there were plenty of memories with the team, as there will always be important moments each year with a new group of players.

“Road trips are always a great time,” Borcher said. “Getting to spend time with the team forming bonds and getting to know the girls. Then on the competitive side, I enjoy watching them compete and giving their best effort.”