In a challenging matchup, the girls’ basketball team fell 23-56 to the Waubonsie Valley Warriors, one of the state’s top programs.

Head coach Nathan Gehrt reflected on the tough loss against the Warriors, praising the Mustangs defensive effort despite the outcome. 

“Daniella Mporokoso is one of the top players in the entire state, yet senior Arainna Hammons held her in check,” Coach Gehrt said. “She had 13 points, holding her well below her scoring average. Additionally, their second scorer was held to 4 points. Our defense was good enough, for the most part, to win the game against a very tough and talented opponent.”

Preparation for the season has been a learning process for the Mustangs as they adapt to Coach Gehrt’s leadership in his first year at Metea Valley. While the game against Waubonsie Valley highlighted areas for improvement, Coach Gehrt emphasized the value of competing against top-tier opponents. 

“When you play good competition, the result isn’t always a win, but it raises your game,” Coach Gehrt said. “The intensity we brought against Plainfield East and Willowbrook shows we’re progressing and learning how to compete,” Coach Gehrt said.

Looking ahead, the Mustangs hope to build on their momentum and garner more student support. 

“We’d love to get as much support in the stands as possible,” Coach Gehrt said. “We have a group of hard-working girls who are representing Metea Valley very well, and we’d love for the student body to come cheer on that hard work and find pride in what we’re doing.”

Good luck to the coach and these Mustangs in their next game on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., when they will host the Neuqua Valley Wildcats.