On Saturday, January 4, the Alma-Pepin Eagles basketball teams were provided with a unique and exciting opportunity. Both teams made the early morning trip to the Minneapolis Target Center, home of the Timberwolves and Lynx, to play the Boyceville Bulldogs.
The Lady Eagles got the doubleheader started against the Boyceville Bulldogs. The Eagles were not distracted by the big stage at all, leading immediately after the tip-off. With some great outside shooting, the Eagles took a 7-point lead into the locker room at halftime. In the second half, the Eagles extended the lead to double digits with not only continued sharp shooting from outside but also mixing in some strong basket attacks. It was a true team effort with three players, Allidah Luff, Tori Creighton, and Macy Stewart scoring in double digits as well as multiple other players contributing to the scoring frenzy. The Eagles were led by Allidah Luff with 16 points, Mya Stewart with 8 rebounds, Macy Stewart with 4 assists, and Allidah Luff with 4 steals. The Lady Eagles' first trip to the Target Center ended with a 56 to 50 win, increasing their record to 6 and 5 for the season.
Next, the Eagle Boys basketball took center stage. The game was back and forth for much of the first half as the Eagles struggled to get into a rhythm for much of the game but continued to battle. They faced a 9-point deficit going into the locker room at halftime. Coming out of halftime the Eagles’ deficit grew to double digits early into the second half. Even though the girls shot lights out, the boys had numerous shots that seemed to continue to rim out. Late in the second half, the boys cranked up the pressure and went on an eight-to-zero run, but unfortunately ran out of time to mount a full comeback. The boys ended up losing to the Boyceville Bulldogs with a final score of 47 to 61, dropping their season record to 4 and 7.
The Eagles basketball teams had a great inaugural trip to the Target Center and are very thankful for this amazing opportunity. The Timberwolves have a great program, Play Where the Pros Play, where young athletes get to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. For the game, the youth get the chance to play on the big stage and follow in the pros’ footsteps.