Basketball Recap: Circle Comes Up Short

Circle and Buhler squared off in some playoff action on Saturday, but Circle had to settle for second. They fell to the Buhler Crusaders 35-30. Unfortunately, that's the third time they've come up short against the Crusaders this season, with their most recent loss being a 72-49 defeat two weeks ago.

Despite the loss, Circle still got an impressive performance from Emma Johnson, who posted 12 points and six boards. What's more, Johnson also posted a 67% three-point shooting accuracy, which is the highest she's achieved since back in February of 2024.

Buhler's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Natalya Krafels led the charge by dropping a double-double with 12 points and ten rebounds. Krafels is also on a roll when it comes to steals, as she's now grabbed two or more in each of the last three games she's played. Another player making a difference was Gracie Oard, who had eight points in addition to eight boards and five assists.

Circle has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost five of their last six games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 10-12 record this season. The victory made it two in a row for Buhler and bumps their season record up to 18-4.

Circle does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Buhler, they will square off against Labette County at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday. Buhler is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 53.4 points per game this season.