In a thrilling display of teamwork and skill, the Waterford Wildcats secured an impressive 57-32 victory over Newark Catholic on Saturday. This win marked their eleventh of the season, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the league. The game highlighted the versatility of senior player Avery Wagner, who not only dominated under the basket but also showcased her passing prowess with six assists. Coach Jerry Close emphasized the importance of Wagner's role in opening up opportunities for her teammates, particularly freshman Brynnlee Pottmeyer. Despite a slow start, the Wildcats' defensive pressure forced multiple turnovers, leading to a decisive second-half surge.

Game Details: A Dominant Performance in Waterford

In the charming town of Waterford, the Wildcats faced off against the young Newark Catholic Green Wave on a crisp autumn afternoon. The stage was set at the Cooper Annex, where senior standout Avery Wagner took center stage. Standing tall at 6-foot-4, Wagner demonstrated her all-around abilities by dishing out six assists, which significantly contributed to the team's offensive rhythm. Her presence in the high post allowed her to find open teammates effortlessly, setting the tone for a dominant performance.

The Wildcats began the game with relentless full-court pressure, forcing nine turnovers in the first quarter alone. This defensive intensity translated into a 16-12 lead by the end of the period. Freshman Brynnlee Pottmeyer added to the momentum with a crucial steal and layup early in the second quarter, extending the lead to six points. Despite a brief rally by Newark Catholic, the Wildcats responded with a 6-0 run, led by Wagner's free throws and a well-executed play by teammate Smithberger.

The second half saw the Wildcats firing on all cylinders. They opened the third quarter with a flurry of points, including two more free throws by Wagner and four consecutive points by Smithberger. By the end of the third, the Wildcats had built a commanding 42-21 lead. The final quarter saw no let-up, as the Wildcats continued to capitalize on their strong defense and fluid offense, ultimately securing a convincing 57-32 victory.

Key contributors included Smithberger, who led the scoring with 13 points and seven rebounds, and Wagner, who added 12 points along with her six assists. Fellow senior Kendall Sury also chipped in with 12 points, while Elsie Malec provided eight points. The team's balanced attack and cohesive play were instrumental in overcoming their initial sluggishness and finishing strong.

Newark Catholic, led by Fini Kaiser's 10 points and Sophie Chard Peloquin's eight, fought hard but struggled to match the Wildcats' intensity and depth. The loss drops the Green Wave to 5-5, while the Wildcats improve to 11-1, setting a positive tone for the second half of their season.

Coach Close expressed satisfaction with the team's progress but acknowledged areas for improvement. "We are happy with where we are at, but there is definitely room for growth," he said. "At this point in the season, it's important to understand what's working and what needs adjustment."

From a journalist's perspective, this game underscores the importance of adaptability and teamwork in basketball. The Wildcats' ability to adjust their strategy mid-game and capitalize on their strengths bodes well for their future challenges. As they look ahead to tougher opponents, this victory serves as a reminder that consistency and unity can lead to success on the court.