Lexi Johnson. Marissa Busby, the team’s sweeper, and stopper Alexis Greer led a fierce defensive line-up. The team worked on ball control, marking goal side and distributing the ball to the outside midfielders. The girls’ willingness to try new things, work hard during practice, maneuver as one organism during games, communicate on the field, and support one another made the season a success.

Eagles win “Battle of the Birds”

The Snoqualmie Middle School eighth-grade varsity basketball team finished their season on a high note, waiting all season to play their best basketball.

Top-notch play enabled SMS to defeat Chief Kanim in the annual “Battle of the Birds.” It was a tight contest throughout the first half, with both teams putting it all on the floor. But with the Eagle’s defense, led by the tenacious, denying pressure applied by Josh Piper and the aggressive play displayed by the point guard duo of Cody Botten and Ryan Atkinson, the Hawks were unable to find their rhythm in the second half. With Anthony McLaughlin swatting shots and sweeping the boards, and Tyler Piper’s elevating off the floor for clutch rebounds, the Eagles were able to limit their opponent’s shots. Offensively, the Eagles were led by the inside power game of McLaughlin, who combined bank shots, put backs, and free throws for 21 points, and the outside firepower of Josh Piper, who tickled the twine for 26 points, to lead all scorers. Ryan Olson continued his dogged determination on both ends of the court, contributing key drives to the hoop, and Josh Mitchell provided the extra muscle underneath, grabbing any loose rebounds. Botten swished an NBA three, Tyler Piper another three, while Atkinson banked and netted six clutch points down the stretch, enabling the Eagles to fly to a 62-38 victory. It was a great team effort to end the season.

Piper was honored with the “Mr. Offense” award for the season. Botten took home “Mr. Defense,” and Mitchell was honored as most improved player.