On Thursday, January 19, the Gilpin Girls Basketball Team squared off for a home game against the Longmont Christian Warriors. Nearly halfway through their season, from the tipoff until the final buzzer, the Eagles showed why they are a force to be reckoned with.

During the first quarter the girls “took care of the ball well and didn’t turn it over,” according to Coach Jeff Schuessler. They scored 14 points. Longmont Christian didn’t score any. When they finally did make a basket in the second quarter, the Gilpin fans applauded, without a hint of sarcasm, showing empathy for their opponent and relieved that they were at last on the board. The Eagles were never in danger of losing this contest. Score at halftime: Gilpin 21, Longmont Christian 2.

The Eagles applied relentless pressure to the Warriors in the third quarter. Decidedly overmatched, Longmont Christian’s offensive playbook was limited. Mostly, their point guard would bring the ball up the court and pass it into the corner. Once there, the Eagles would apply a trap by double teaming that player which often resulted in a turnover, errant pass, or bad shot. One of the girls’ mottos instilled by their coach is, “When you see their back, attack.” Although not playing as tight as they might have against a better opponent, the Eagles still poured in 17 more points. Score after three quarters: Gilpin 38, Longmont Christian 4.

With the game well in hand, the coach was able to rest his starters and afford his younger players some valuable experience. Final score: Gilpin 42, Longmont Christian 8.

Kailey Starkey led all scorers with 10 points on five for ten shooting and a 50% average. Sophomore Annabelle Aloel did a solid job of clearing the boards, registering 10 rebounds. Skyley and Faith Ramsey each had five steals and Elise Vincent four. In a well-balanced effort, all nine of Gilpin’s girls scored points.

Since their game versus the Warriors, the Eagles added another victory against Clear Creek two days later by a score of 59-6. The girls’ record now stands at 7-2. They are 3-0 in league play and undefeated at home, winning six straight. Coach Jeff Schuessler foresees that, “We have a really good chance of going to regionals,” but warns, “To guarantee a spot, we have to win the district.”

The Lady Eagles’ next home games are on January 31 against Denver Christian, February 2 against Heritage Christian, February 6 against Kiowa, and on February 11 versus North Park.