Chieftains take two out of three as they progress on

By Ginna Young

Lake Holcombe’s girls basketball program had a long week, with three games on the schedule.

Jan. 5 vs. Luck non-conference (W 61-25)

First up on the week, was a game with Luck on the Chieftains’ home court, which also served as Parents’ Night.

“We’re very thankful of our athletes’ parents’ support, without them, we wouldn’t have a program,” said assistant coach J.D. Kirkman. “It’s a huge commitment on the part of a family to invest in high school athletics. We, as coaches and parents of athletes, recognize that and knowing the commitment, we just want to say thanks.”

Even though nerves are high when wanting to do well for the parents, Lake Holcombe’s girls performed at a high level. The Chieftains held Luck to just nine points in the first half, taking a 24-point lead into the break. Luck couldn’t catch up and Lake Holcombe claimed a 61-25 win.

Sophomore Abby Jones led for the team, with 19 points, including two shots from beyond the arc.

“Abby Jones came into her own tonight, she really carved out a spot and we’re very proud of [that] effort,” said Kirkman.

Senior Karly Kirkman followed that up with 15 points, while junior Emma Lechleitner was right behind, with 12. Senior Justine came up with 9 points, and sophomore Chloe Lee and freshman Megan Paff each notched a three-point shot.

“The Luck Cardinals were a well-coached, fast team,” said J.D. Kirkman. “It took a team effort to produce the win. We’re very happy with the team effort, especially on Parent’s Night.”

Jan. 6 vs. Clayton conference (L 55-43)

Up next, was Clayton, in an away match, which proved difficult for the Chieftains.

“We maintained control of the game in the first half, we got in foul trouble in the second that limited our ability to continue the same level of play,” said J.D. Kirkman. “There were a lot of fouls called in the game (44), on both teams, three of our starters fouled out, the other two each had four; it’s just one of those games that didn’t go our way.”

The Chieftains battled to the end, but the game went to Clayton, 55-43.

K. Kirkman and Kane each had 13 points on the night, while Lechleitner ended with 12. Jones shot a three for Lake Holcombe and Lee added 2 points.

“Our athletes gave a maximum effort and we’re very happy with the progression they are showing,” said J.D. Kirkman. “Clayton is a good team, in the end, we’re very proud of the effort our athletes showed.”

Jan. 9 vs. Birchwood conference (W 66-23)

To finish up the hectic schedule, Lake Holcombe hosted Birchwood, who was no match for the Chieftains. The Bobcats couldn’t get their offense going and the game was Lake Holcombe’s, 66-23.

“We understand Birchwood is rebuilding their team, we know what that is like,” said J.D. Kirkman. “One of the challenges this year, for many teams, is the short bench; you’re not only competing with your opponent, but you’re also fighting illness, injury and eligibility.”

Lechleitner led for the team, with 19 points, followed by Kane, with 14, and K. Kirkman, who ended with 11. Jones added 8 points, with freshman Savannah Burlingame contributing 6, and Lee and Paff each chipping in with 4.

The Chieftains now sit at 6-3 overall and 4-1 in the league.

“The team played well, we still have several areas to improve, but overall, the girls are improving every game,” said J.D. Kirkman. “The younger players got plenty of court time, which will help the team develop throughout the season.”