King’s Way Christian hoping for big things; plus tidbits on every team

Just like that, it’s time for the stretch run of the regular season in high school basketball. Here are some notes on the Clark County teams in the Class 2A Greater St. Helens League and the Trico League

Class 2A Greater St. Helens League

Washougal Panthers (8-4, 4-0 GSHL)

The Panthers have made it to state three years in a row. At this point, the program is not only looking to excel in league play. The Panthers want more.

In December, they took a trip in search of some tougher competition. Lost a few, but perhaps gained in the long run.

“We have progressed in senior leadership, communication on the court, and each player working hard to perfect their roles,” Washougal coach Britney Knotts said. “These girls get after it, and they play for each other.

“We have a lot of work to do to become a state caliber team, but we are working hard to attain our goals and continue growing.”

Beyonce Bea leads the team in points, rebounds, steals, blocked shots. Kiara Cross is the team’s assist leader. McKinley Stotts is second in scoring. Skylar Bea is second in rebounds and blocks.

 

 

Washougal is No. 15 in the 2A RPI. The Panthers take on Columbia River (No. 17 RPI) on Monday.

Columbia River Chieftains (8-4, 3-1)

“We are learning to execute and build on the start of the foundation set from last year,” Columbia River coach Will Jones said. “We were able to continue to build with six varsity returners.”

First-team, all-leaguer Jordan Ryan averages 13 points per game. Erin Baker is second on the team at 11 points.

Jones noted the league is tough, and the Chieftains are working to improve, looking to get one of the playoff spots.

Columbia River started 3-0 in league play but lost in overtime earlier this week to R.A. Long. The Chieftains take on Woodland on Friday, then face first-place Washougal on Monday.

Hockinson Hawks (7-5, 2-2)

A young team, but super athletic. The future looks bright, and the present has some good things, too.

“I expected mistakes. I expected us to win some we shouldn’t win, and lose some we shouldn’t lose, and that’s what has happened so far,” Hockinson coach Damon Roche said.

The Hawks are not up to par with Washougal, the coach said, but should be battling for a playoff spot. He noted that Washougal appears to be the top of the league, Mark Morris is down this year. The other four teams are battling for the final three playoff spots.

“I’m fairly happy,” Roche said. “We are gaining ground, gaining confidence.”

Jasmine Shigeno leads the team with 13 points per game. Emma Dietel is scoring 10 a game. Adi Dyer is just under 10 rebounds a game, plus she is doing all the stuff that does not make the stat sheet that helps a team succeed, Roche said.

Ridgefield Spudders (8-5, 2-3)

“We are much improved over last year when we play as a team,” Ridgefield coach Tom Klutz said. “Individuals don’t help us win, but the cumulative effect of all five helps us play better and together.”

Devi Dugan is leading a balanced attack at 12.6 points per game. Allie Andrew has the double-double going on at 11.7 points and 13.6 rebounds a game, plus she blocks 4.6 shots a game. Karli Oliver is leading the team in assists.

Woodland Beavers (7-5, 1-3)

While the Beavers are at 1-3 in league, there are signs that the season is turning in their favor.

They played strong against everyone’s favorite, Washougal. Then then picked up their first league win earlier this week. They have a chance to get back in the the mix with a game vs. Columbia River on Friday.

Payten Foster has had the hot hand of late. She scored 27 points in the Washougal game. Kaily Christensen has the potential to score in bunches, too.

Trico League

La Center Wildcats (4-7, 2-0 Trico)

“We were very fortunate to have a very seasoned team the last few years. Now we are the underdogs that everyone wants to beat in our league,” La Center coach Herm VanWeerdhuizen said.

Taylor Stephens, one of the most talented players in the region for all classifications, is the team’s lone senior and represents the team’s only size.

“I don’t like the losing part but enjoying watching the team improve every day,” the coach said.

Oh, and even if it is not the same La Center team as in past seasons, the Wildcats did not hide from a challenge. A tough non-league schedule helped with their toughness. Now they have started league play 2-0.

King’s Way Christian Knights (6-6, 2-0)

Injuries and a tougher non-league schedule hurt the record, but the Knights are in position to do some damage this year in the Trico League.

The Knights had all 11 players healthy in January, the first time since starting the season 3-0.

“This year we have depth and are using our entire bench,” King’s Way Christian coach Randy Graves said. “I am very encouraged by the unselfish play of each of our players and look to make a deep run in the district playoffs. Defense and unselfish play makes the Knights dangerous this year.”

Laurel Quinn, a freshman, has been the team’s most consistent shooter. Mackenzie Ellertson is playing well, too.

Seton Catholic Cougars (5-7, 1-1)

It has already been a successful season for the Cougars. A year after winning one game, Seton has five victories this season, including a Trico League contest.

Jasmine Morgan is the leading scorer for the team, always with the potential to put up a bunch of points.