The Lady Wildcats won their first regular season game of the year, then went 5-0 in their first tournament. They followed that up with a 56-11 homecourt performance over Northland Prep on Tuesday night. The following night their winning streak came to a close in Chinle against a very good 3A team.
In Tuesday’s dominating win over Northland Prep, Joseph City was on cruise control early. They netted 30 first-quarter points, then held the Spartans scoreless in the second to lead 42-3 at the half. Joseph City took their foot off the gas in the second half but still won the game big 56-11.
Audrey Neill led a balanced attack in scoring with 12. Jaydiana Kinlicheenie added 9; McKenzie Jesmer, 8; Amber Neill, 7; April Neill, 6; Tori Beatty, 5; Samantha Jesmer, 4; Gabby Jesmer, 3; and Raylee Fish helped with 3.
Facing a solid Chinle team in the Wildcat Den, the following day was a big challenge. The Wildcats return most of their final four roster from a season ago. They have a tough post player and several good, experienced guards.
Joseph City was outscored by 9 in the opening frame but chipped 3 points off that margin by the half. Chinle made it a 40-33 lead heading into the fourth. The Cats managed to take 3 points off the lead, but a 51-47 final score was as close as they would get.
Amber Neill did her part scoring 17. Samantha Jesmer added 8, as did April Neill. Gabby Jesmer netted 5, Audrey Neill 4, McKenzie Jesmer 4, and Raylee Fish made a free throw.
That loss was their first of the season, leaving them with a 7-1 overall record going into this week’s action. They will host Mogollon on Tuesday night. The Mustangs are 6-1, with their only loss coming to a good Round Valley team.
Joseph City will play in the Holiday Tournament hosted by Flagstaff, Thursday through Saturday. On Dec. 17, they will host Hopi, then will play St. Johns on Dec. 20, for their final game before winter break.
