The Student Newspaper of Highline College

Denys Matsyuk/THUNDERWORD

Julia Hennis catches a pass from Jesselle Victo.

The women’s basketball team does not qualify for the playoffs, will end its season Saturday

Nicolas Cardenas Staff Reporter Feb 22, 2024

Gabriel Jingga/THUNDERWORD

Almost at the conclusion of the women’s basketball season, the Thunderbirds faced a strikeout series of games against Green River, Centralia, and South Puget Sound. All three matches were played at home, and all three matches ended with the Thunderbirds trailing.

Denys Matsyuk/THUNDERWORD

Jesselle Victo takes a shot.

To recap, in the game against Green River, which was lost 63-46, one of the leaders of the scoreboards and one of the most outstanding players, Anaia Lewis compiled 17 points for Highline. On the other side, Emily Williams was the most complete player with 18 points for Green River. 

In the following game against Centralia, players like Rahi-Mya Sumler and Sarah Gatluak fought hard, each contributing 16 points. Still, Centralia’s offense proved too strong, ending the game with a 60-48 loss for Highline.

With the season winding down, Highline then faced South Puget Sound in their final home game of the season. Once again, Anaiya Lewis and Sarah Gatluak led the charge, but despite their efforts, the team fell short, losing 66-48.

Denys Matsyuk/THUNDERWORD

Anaiya Lewis defends the ball.

The team has had a fairly tight schedule, playing every three days during the regular season. The previous three defeats officially eliminated the Thunderbird from the playoffs.

Although the season didn’t end in the postseason, as they had hoped, the Highline women’s basketball team demonstrated hard work and effort throughout a challenging season. As they reflect on the season, they’ll use these experiences to fuel their growth and return stronger. 

The final game of the season will be played Saturday, Feb. 24, officially concluding a season to forget. At home, Highline College will face off against Lower Columbia at noon.