The Belmond-Klemme girls’ basketball team put up a fight, but its season came to an end.
Playing at Pocahontas Area in the second round of playoffs on Feb. 17, the Broncos fell 70-41.
The loss finished off a 4-18 season for the Broncos.
Belmond-Klemme ended its regular-season schedule one week earlier with a 67-12 loss to state-ranked Forest City.
Forest City 67, Belmond-Klemme 12
Forest City jumped out to a fast start on the road and downed Belmond-Klemme 67-12 on Feb. 10.
Despite the lopsided loss, the main focus prior to the game was Belmond-Klemme honored its six seniors for their dedication and contributions to the program. Lily Pigman, Lila Swenson, Kendra Huedepohl, Macy Gobeli, Kaylen Morris and Grace Fahrmann all got their moment to shine.
“The ceremony was a special moment for the players, their families and the Bronco community, celebrating years of hard work and commitment,” Belmond-Klemme coach James Severson said.
The Indians were up 33-5 at halftime and increased their lead to 50-12 after three quarters. The Broncos were held scoreless in the final quarter.
“Once the game began, we came out ready to compete,” Severson said. “We did an excellent job defensively in the first quarter, limiting the highly rated Indians and keeping the game within reach early.”
Forest City made more field goals (26) than Belmond-Klemme was actually able to attempt (25).
The Broncos turned the ball over 40 times against Forest City’s relentless defense, which tallied 29 steals. The home team shot just 20% (5-for-25) from the field.
Morris came off the bench and led Belmond-Klemme in scoring with six points. Nevi McMurray added four points and five rebounds. Huedepohl had two points, six rebounds and two steals. Swenson picked up a team-high three steals.
Pocahontas Area 70, Belmond-Klemme 41
Even though the score reflects a 29-point loss for Belmond-Klemme in its season-ending playoff loss at Pocahontas Area, coach Severson called it one of his team’s most competitive performances of the season.
“The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading baskets and momentum,” Severson said. “Pocahontas Area held a slight edge at halftime, but our girls showcased tremendous composure and teamwork.
“We played some of our best basketball of the year, moving the ball well and attacking with confidence. The execution on offense was strong enough to force Pocahontas Area out of its traditionally aggressive full-court press — a testament to our poise and team-first approach.”
In her final game wearing a Bronco jersey, Huedepohl tallied 22 points. Fellow senior Morris put in seven points and McMurray scored six.
“There was no shortage of heart on the floor. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, the girls competed with determination and pride,” Severson said. “The growth from Day 1 of practice to the final regional game was evident, and the team’s improvement throughout the season was something to celebrate.”