Basketball Recap: Cherokee Trail Takes a Loss

Cherokee Trail and Highlands Ranch squared off in some playoff action on Wednesday, but Cherokee Trail had to settle for second. They fell just short of the Highlands Ranch Falcons by a score of 54-52. The Cougars were given a dose of their own medicine in this game as the Falcons apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in February of 2024.

Aaliyah Broadus

Points

01/07/25 @ Vista PEAK Prep	29
03/05/25 @ Highlands Ranch	26
12/20/24 @ Desert Vista	25
01/02/25 vs Mt. Zion Prep Academy	23
01/29/25 vs Smoky Hill	19
+ 20 more games

When it comes to explaining why Cherokee Trail lost, don't look at Aaliyah Broadus. Despite the final result, she dropped a double-double with 26 points and 13 boards. Broadus is becoming a predictor of Cherokee Trail's success: when she posts at least 15 points the team is 8-2 (and 7-8 when she doesn't). Madeline Gibbs was another key player, putting up 12 points.

Even though they lost, Cherokee Trail smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 16 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least ten offensive boards in three consecutive matchups.

Highlands Ranch's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Tori Baker, who posted 18 points and six steals. Baker is on a roll when it comes to steals, as she's now grabbed two or more in each of the last five games she's played. Another player making a difference was Ezra Simonich, who had 17 points and seven rebounds.

Cherokee Trail has traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four games. That's put a noticeable dent in their 15-10 record this season. Highlands Ranch's win was their fourth straight at home, which pushed their record up to 22-3.

Cherokee Trail does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Highlands Ranch, it'll be a Battle of the Birds when Highlands Ranch Falcons face off against Riverdale Ridge Ravens at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday. Riverdale Ridge will roll in looking for their 14th straight victory, something Highlands Ranch surely won't give up without a fight.