Basketball Recap: Kearns Comes Up Short

Kearns was the 64-57 winner over Hunter when they last played one another back in February of 2024, but their luck changed this time around. The Kearns Cougars took a 48-44 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Hunter Wolverines. While the Cougars didn't get the win, they did start the game off strong, beating the Wolverines 17-12 in the first quarter.

Despite the loss, Kearns saw an underclassman step up: sophomore Ava Tupou shot 4-for-7 from long range and dropped a double-double on 12 points and ten rebounds. Tupou is on a roll when it comes to boards, as she's now pulled down eight or more in the last three games she's played. Another player making a difference was Lia Benson, who posted eight points.

Hunter's win on Tuesday was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Grace Gallagher, who dropped a double-double on 16 points and 11 rebounds. Gallagher is becoming a predictor of Hunter's success: when she posts at least eight boards the team is 3-1 (and 4-10 when she doesn't). The team also got some help courtesy of Skye Davidson, who went 5 of 9 en route to 17 points and six rebounds.

Kearns has been struggling recently as they've lost three of their last four matches, which put a noticeable dent in their 7-9 record this season. As for Hunter, they have been performing well recently as they've won four of their last five games, which provided a nice bump to their 7-11 record this season.

Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Kearns will face off against Granger at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Kearns is facing Granger at the right time seeing as Granger is stuck on a four-game losing streak. As for Hunter, they will challenge Taylorsville at 5:15 p.m. on Friday. Taylorsville will roll in looking for their fourth straight victory, something Hunter surely won't give up without a fight.