Lady Bobcats Claim Consolation Championship with Win Over Lingle-Ft. Laramie
(This story was prepared by NLJ Publisher Bob Bonnar with the assistance of artificial intelligence.)
Upton Lady Bobcats ended their season on a high note, securing the 1A State Consolation Championship with a 43-33 victory over the Lingle-Ft. Laramie Lady Doggers on Saturday morning at Natrona County High School.
Strong Start Sets the Tone
Upton came out aggressive, taking a 14-11 lead after the first quarter, with Breeley Materi and Bella Keller setting the pace early. The Bobcats maintained their defensive intensity throughout the first half, leading 22-20 at the break despite a push from Lingle-Ft. Laramie’s Skyla Wunder, who finished with a game-high 15 points.
Second-Half Surge
The Bobcats took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Lady Doggers 14-8 behind key plays from Keller and Maddie Mills. Keller dominated the glass, securing 13 rebounds to go along with her 10 points. The Lady Bobcats’ ability to limit second-chance opportunities proved crucial as they built a 36-28 lead heading into the final frame.
Despite some late pressure from Lingle-Ft. Laramie, Upton’s free-throw shooting helped seal the win. The Bobcats shot 12-of-18 from the line (66.7%), including key makes from Mills and Lilly Jackson down the stretch. Mills finished with 11 points, tying Materi as the team’s top scorer.
Defensive Effort and Rebounding Edge
Upton’s defense forced 15 turnovers and held the Lady Doggers to just 19.7% shooting from the field. Materi and Paige Mills combined for three steals, while Keller recorded five blocked shots to anchor the paint. Addison Gustaf led the team in assists with four, while Materi also contributed seven rebounds.
Despite Lingle-Ft. Laramie winning the offensive rebounding battle (21-11), Upton held a slight overall edge in total rebounds (45-42), limiting second-chance points.
Final Thoughts
The Lady Bobcats' balanced offensive attack and defensive discipline allowed them to control the pace and finish their season on a winning note. With contributions across the board, Upton claimed the Consolation Championship, demonstrating resilience and determination after dropping their first round contest and playing three straight 9 a.m. contests in the tournament.
Scoring Summary:
Upton Lady Bobcats
Breeley Materi – 11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals
Maddie Mills – 11 points, 3 rebounds
Bella Keller – 10 points, 13 rebounds, 5 blocks
Lilly Jackson – 6 points, 3 rebounds
Paige Mills – 3 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal
Addison Gustaf – 2 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists
Lingle-Ft. Laramie Lady Doggers
Skyla Wunder – 15 points
Jordynn Speckner – 7 points
Brenly Shipp – 3 points
Shaylyn Rising – 3 points
Afton Schilreff – 1 point
Charlotte Speckner – 2 points
Avary Rising – 2 points