Basketball Recap: Gerstell Academy Takes Loss Despite Strong Efforts from Kiara Hardy and Mackenzie Wilking

Gerstell Academy was not able to break out of their rough patch on Friday as the team picked up their seventh straight defeat. They fell 47-37 to the St. John's Catholic Prep Vikings. Gerstell Academy was given a dose of their own medicine in this game as St. John's Catholic Prep apparently hadn't forgotten their loss the last time these teams played back in February of 2024.

Gerstell Academy's loss came despite strong showings from Mackenzie Wilking and Kiara Hardy. Wilking went 6 for 8 on her way to 12 points and eight rebounds, while Hardy posted 16 points and eight boards. The contest was Hardy's third in a row with at least ten points. Victoria Pearson also deserves some recognition as she posted her first block of the season.

Even though they lost, Gerstell Academy smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 14 offensive rebounds. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their offensive board total in three consecutive games.

St. John's Catholic Prep's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Olivia Bolduc, who scored 17 points along with eight rebounds and five steals. Bolduc is on a roll when it comes to steals, as she's now grabbed two or more in the last eight games she's played. Samantha Shively was another key player, almost dropping a double-double on 16 points and nine boards.

Gerstell Academy's defeat dropped their record down to 3-13. As for St. John's Catholic Prep, they pushed their record up to 7-13 with the victory, which was their third straight at home.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Gerstell Academy will face off against Notre Dame Prep at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday. As for St. John's Catholic Prep, they will square off against Indian Creek at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.