Cruisers Dominate on Senior Night and Secure #2 Seed in District Playoffs with Triumphant Week

In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the Eatonville Cruiser girls' basketball team cruised to a resounding 66-21 victory over the Hoquiam Grizzlies on Senior Night, maintaining their perfect record against the Grizzlies this season.

The night kicked off with a poignant ceremony honoring the team's five seniors: Kyleigh Backlund, Ella Gendreau, Chloe Patterson, Sara Smith, and Ryan Stammen. Head Coach Deanna Andersen paid tribute by awarding the entire starting lineup to the seniors, recognizing their outstanding contributions throughout their high school careers.

The Lady Cruiser Seniors pose with a couple of their coaches during Senior Night. From L to R: Head Coach Deanna Andersen, Ella Gendreau, Chloe Patterson, Kyleigh Backlund, Ryan Stammen, Sara Smith, and Assistant Coach Robyn Wright. Photo: Amy Wilson

The game started with the Grizzlies hitting a couple of free throws, briefly taking the lead before the Cruiser offense ignited. Lillian Bickford emerged as a standout player, contributing 10 points and 5 rebounds in the first quarter. The Cruisers seized control with a commanding 14-0 run, finishing the quarter with a 21-6 lead.

The momentum continued into the second quarter, with Sara Smith stepping up and scoring 8 points. Bailey Andersen exploded for 12 points in the third quarter, helping the Cruisers extend their lead to a formidable 59-21 heading into the final frame.

In a final display of dominance, the Cruisers held the Grizzlies scoreless in the fourth quarter, securing a decisive 66-21 victory. The win showcased Eatonville's prowess on both ends of the court and served as a fitting celebration for the seniors on their special night.

The Cruisers didn't stop there, ending the week with a triumphant 54-44 win against the Elma Eagles in their final regular-season matchup. With a 3-game win streak, the Cruisers finished the season with an impressive 15-6 overall record and 6-2 in league play, securing the coveted #2 seed in the Southwestern Washington District 4 playoffs.

The victory against the Eagles was fueled by an explosive 2nd quarter, featuring a remarkable 7-0 run that propelled the Cruisers to a 28-18 lead by halftime. Bailey Andersen led the charge with an impressive 20 points, and Hailey Hall contributed with another double-double, tallying 14 points and grabbing 13 rebounds.

With their #2 seed secured, the Lady Cruisers are now gearing up for the district playoffs, where they will face the #3 seeded Castle Rock Rockets on Thursday, February 8th at 6:00 pm in the friendly confines of their home court, Rainier Connect Arena. A win would propel Eatonville into the semifinals against the winner of the Seton Catholic/Hoquiam game on Saturday, Feb, 10th. A loss would drop the Cruisers into the consolation bracket against the loser of that same game on Feb. 10th as well. Times of those games were not available at press time.

The Rockets, seeking redemption after a previous defeat to Eatonville, will provide a challenging matchup.

The Lady Cruisers are undoubtedly excited and ready for the upcoming playoff run, aiming for success in the challenges that lie ahead.