For the Star Journal

Girls regional basketball began Tuesday night for the Hodags as they hosted Medford at 6 p.m. The game was moved ahead an hour in response to the anticipated storm arriving Tuesday night.

The Hodags made the first points of the game but it felt like the Raiders could go on a run and catch up or take the lead. The half time score was 28-17, an 11 point lead, but it did not feel safe.

The girls came out of the break and scored some quick points to extend the lead and at one point were up by 31. The full court press was effective for the Hodags as the home team was able to score off numerous steals and layups. Each team had 19 turnovers for the game but Medford was not able to take advantage of those like the Hodags were able to do.

The game’s leading scorer was senior Ava Lamers, playing her last home game, with 20 points. Also adding points for the Hodags was Dawsyn Barkus and Morgan VanZile with 11 and Leah Jamison with 9. 

Final score, 61-36 for a Hodag win. BOB MAINHARDT PHOTOS

Senior Ava Lamers was fouled on the shot attempt and went to the free throw line for two shots.

Junior Leah Jamison shoots and makes the three point shot. Jamison made three three-pointers on the night.

Eva Hetland saw time in the game off the bench and scored two points on this shot.

Morgan VanZile drives to the basket in the second half. VanZile scored 11 points.

Dawsyn Barkus shoots and makes a three on her way to an 11-point game.

Tori Riopel put up a shot under the basket between a pair of Medford players for two of her four points in the second half.