Basketball Recap: Hooker Comes Up Short

Hooker was the 47-38 winner over Balko/Forgan when they last played one another back in December of 2025, but their luck changed this time around. The Bulldogs took a 39-28 hit to the loss column at the hands of Balko/Forgan on Wednesday. The Bulldogs have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Balko/Forgan's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Brya Appelhans led the charge by shooting 75% from the field on her way to 18 points and three steals. Appelhans' big performance that afternoon made it four games in a row in which she has scored at least 15 points. Another player making a difference was Haylee Taylor, who posted nine points in addition to seven boards and three blocks.

Hooker's loss dropped their record down to 11-8. As for Balko/Forgan, they have been performing well recently as they've won nine of their last 11 games. That's provided a nice bump to their 16-4 record this season.

Hooker and Balko/Forgan should be looking forward to their upcoming games as both have a sizable advantage in the MaxPreps Oklahoma Rankings. The Bulldogs (ranked 124th) will meet Chisholm (ranked 310th) at 1:00 p.m. on Friday. Meanwhile, Balko/Forgan will challenge Vici at 6:30 p.m. on Friday with a big rank advantage (122 vs. 332).