Preview: Upsala Cardinals vs. Melrose Dutchmen
Upsala is on a three-game streak of home losses, Melrose a nine-game streak of away losses (dating back to last season), but someone's luck is about to change. The Upsala Cardinals will be home for the holidays to greet the Melrose Dutchmen at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday. Given that the pair suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this match.
Upsala pushed their score all the way to 59 on Tuesday, but even that wasn't enough to win. They fell to Ogilvie 63-59.
Despite the loss, Upsala had strong showings from Isabel Ripplinger, who scored ten points along with five rebounds and five steals, and Hannah Heesen, who dropped a double-double on ten points and 11 rebounds. Those 11 rebounds set a new season-high mark for her. The team also got some help courtesy of Isabelle Leners, who scored 11 points along with eight rebounds.
Even though they lost, Upsala were smashing the offensive glass and finished the game with 21 offensive rebounds. That's the most offensive rebounds they've managed all season.
Meanwhile, Melrose took a serious blow against West Central Area last Thursday, falling 70-38. While losing is never fun, Melrose can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Minnesota basketball rankings (they are ranked 327th, while West Central Area is ranked 90th).
Upsala has traveled a rocky road recently, as they've lost five of their last six contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 2-6 record this season. As for Melrose, their defeat dropped their record down to 1-4.
Upsala couldn't quite finish off Melrose in their previous matchup back in January of 2022 and fell 50-47. Will Upsala have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more basketball content.
