Chieftains having offensive woes nearing season’s end

By Ginna Young

With their leading scorer out for the season from a wrist injury, the Lake Holcombe girls basketball program is struggling to put points on the board, as they adjust their lineup.

Feb. 7 vs. Clayton conference (L 59-32)

Taking on Clayton at home in a conference game, the Chieftains team ran into offensive trouble, only putting up 32 points on the board. Meanwhile, the Bears racked up a hefty lead and went home with the win, 59-32.

Senior Justine Kane came up big for Lake Holcombe, scoring 24 points, while senior Karly Kirkman recorded 4 and sophomore Chloe Lee ended with 2. Shooting and making a free throw each for the team, were senior Belle Jones and sophomore Abby Jones.

Feb. 13 vs. Butternut non-conference (L 54-33)

Playing a makeup game on the road, the Chieftains stepped out of the conference to face off with Butternut. However, scoring remained at a premium for Lake Holcombe.

“The struggle continues…our short bench, losing key players and trying to reinvent an effective strategy, remains our situation,” said assistant coach J.D. Kirkman.

Lake Holcombe only managed to put up 33 in the game, while Butternut steadily put points on the board, to take a 54-33 win.

“The freshmen continue to develop, the seniors find themselves filling gaps in the offense and defense, while instructing the younger players at the same time,” said Kirkman. “It’s challenging.”

Senior Karly Kirkman led for the Chieftains, with 21 points on the night, followed by sophomore Abby Jones, with 5. Senior Justine Kane added 3 points, while sophomore Chloe Lee and freshman Lexi Hoffner each chipped in with 2.

“Dealing with injuries this late in the season, forces the team to adapt to different positions/responsibilities,” said J.D. Kirkman. “Given the situation, they’re doing great.”