Badgers pressure Royals winning season opener

BONNERS FERRY — Girls basketball overwhelmed North Idaho Christian with a full court press resulting in 27 steals and a 45-16 victory.

The Badgers were aggressive and, when the Royals felt the pressure, mistakes were made. At the half Bonners Ferry was up 33-9. North Idaho Christian came back from the half with fight, but only scored seven more points in the game.

Asha Abubakari and Mia Blackmore combined for 12 steals and 11 rebounds. Avery Bayer scored 10 points including three three-pointers and Kaylee Sumpter added 10 points and six rebounds. The Royals had a height advantage, but the Badger’s boxed out and found nearly every rebound.

“That is the best game [Kaylee] Sumpter has played and Avery did a great job of shooting and controlling our offense,” said varsity Coach Travis Hinthorn.

Braylyn Bayer had a solid all-around performance with six points, six rebounds, four steals and two assists.

“This was a great first game for us to see where we are and what we need to continue to work on. I like the speed and energy we had on the court today,” Hinthorn said.

Bonners Ferry: Petersen 2, Burt 0, Villaluz 0, Tompkins 0, Pluid 4, Blackmore 4, Abubakari 7, Shottanana-Ponce 2, B. Bayer 6, Sumpter 10, A. Bayer 10.

North Idaho Chrisian: Garn 1, Gate 4, Salaiz 0, Kelly 3, Overturf 5, S. Pilgrim 0, Malinauskas 1, Sandwald 0, Y. Pilgrim 2.

The Lady Badgers travel next to St. Maries Friday with the JV tipping off at 5 p.m. and the varsity starting at 6:30 p.m.

Last year the Badgers were third at districts, second in the league and lost two games at state. Hinthorn said that this season it is anyone’s game. Timberlake has won state the past two years, but graduated many seniors last year. Kellogg has a 6’1 post, but it is still the Badger’s goal to come out on top.

Last year it was hard to see five seniors graduate, said Hinthorn, but this opens up opportunities for other kids.

Bonners Ferry: 17 16 12 0 45

NI Christian: 7 2 4 3 16