Basketball Recap: Ainsworth Takes a Loss

Ainsworth was the 40-36 winner over Sandhills/Thedford when they last played one another back in February of 2024, but their luck changed this time around. The Ainsworth Bulldogs took a 51-42 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Sandhills/Thedford Knights on Friday. The Bulldogs have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Despite the defeat, Ainsworth saw an underclassman step up: sophomore Gracyn Painter posted 19 points along with eight boards and three steals. That was a full 45.2% of Ainsworth's points, marking the fourth time in a row she's earned more than a third of the team's points. Preselyn Goochey was another key player, putting up 13 points and three steals.

Even though they lost, Ainsworth smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with ten offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least nine offensive rebounds in eight consecutive matchups.

Ainsworth's loss dropped their record down to 4-13. As for Sandhills/Thedford, their win bumped their record up to 12-8.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Ainsworth will challenge Stuart at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Sandhills/Thedford, they will square off against Mullen on Tuesday.