Heading into this season, Walpole Girls Basketball set out to reach or even surpass last year’s success. They started out the season with a win over Natick, a loss to Newton North, and a close win over the talented Wellesley squad. This Tuesday night, January 8, the Rebels clinched a critical victory over Milton, to improve their overall record to 5-2.
The Rebels came out strong in the first quarter and took an early lead of 8-6 after only three minutes of play. Senior Captain Bridget Nicholson quickly stood out as an offensive threat after making two consecutive three pointers. Milton fought hard to catch up to Walpole by hitting a three pointer, but Nicholson scored again to advance the lead to 17-13. Walpole maintained strong defense throughout the quarter and continued to penetrate Milton’s defense with aggressive offensive looks and drives. Sophomore Julie Moser, one of the team’s point guards, hit a three pointer with 40 seconds left, and the Rebels closed out the quarter winning 22-13.
During the second quarter, Walpole continued to put pressure on the Milton team. Strong rebounding by the posts and great shooting by everyone helped the Rebels take a lead of 24-19 with four minutes remaining. Junior Nell Sandvos had great hustle and good offensive looks while Moser consistently contributed points and proved to be an excellent ball handler throughout the game. After the half, Walpole was up 33-24.
The third quarter was strong for Walpole, but even stronger for Milton, who was able to make a comeback and even take the lead at one point. Senior Darci Bruce made a three pointer, and Nicholson was able to weave through the defense on a contested lay-up to earn two foul shots. With two minutes left in the quarter, the score was a tie: 37-37. Milton then took the lead by two, but Nicholson redeemed the Rebels and tied up the score again. The score at the end of the third quarter was 40-39, in favor of Walpole.
In the last quarter, the Rebels were able to keep a steady lead, with outstanding performances from Nicholson and sophomore Summer King. Bridget hit another three pointer, adding to her game total of five three pointers. King and senior Captain Lauren Bodin also hit three point shots and Walpole received multiple fouls from Milton. With only a few minutes left in the game, the score was 55-49 with Walpole in the lead. Moser and Sandvos each made a free throw , giving the game a final score of 58-52. Nicholson finished the night with an astounding 24 points and King put up another 15.
The Rebels face Dedham this Friday night at Dedham High School.
