Basketball Recap: Samantha Pilarski Key Part of a Team Effort in Cardinals Win

There's no place like home for Upsala, who bounced back after a loss on the road last Friday. They had just enough and edged the Pillager Huskies out 78-75. The Cardinals' offense checked out after the first half but had enough points banked to take the game anyway.

Upsala's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Samantha Pilarski led the charge by going 13 of 28 on her way to 30 points along with five boards and five steals. That's the most points Pilarski has posted since back in February of 2024. Another player making a difference was Zoey Leners, who went 7 for 12 en route to 19 points and eight rebounds.

Upsala 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 11 offensive boards in three consecutive matchups.

Upsala has been performing well recently as they've won three of their last four games, which provided a nice bump to their 12-7 record this season. The wins came thanks to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 64.3 points per game. As for Pillager, they have been struggling recently as they've lost nine of their last 12 contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 6-13 record this season.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Upsala will host Swanville at 7:15 p.m. on Friday. Upsala is strutting in with some offensive muscle as they've averaged 55.4 points per game this season. As for Pillager, they will welcome New York Mills at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday. New York Mills will roll in looking for their ninth straight win, something Pillager surely won't give up without a fight.