The Huskie girls basketball team battled the Neuqua Valley Wildcats and were able to pull out a close win on Tuesday night in their first game of a season ravaged by COVID-19.

The Naperville North Huskies (1-0, 1-0) defeated the Neuqua Valley Wildcats (0-1, 0-1) by a final score of 57-50.

The Huskies started off strong on both ends of the floor. In the first quarter, the Huskies ramped up the pressure which led the Wildcats to many turnovers. Throughout the game, senior Alison Kickel was an offensive force and dominated the Wildcats on the glass. She ended up with 10 meaningful points for the Huskies. Although it wasn’t a pretty game, Kickel credits her teammates for the win tonight.  

“I think together we played really well, obviously it doesn’t matter how the individual plays it matters how the team plays. I think in the end we really pulled together to win,” Kickel said.

Senior captain Greta Kampschroeder was in foul trouble most of the game causing her to sit out for the entire second quarter. Kampschroeder was only able to put up seven points but she praises her team on the effort they gave when she was off the floor. She also acknowledges the underclassmen for stepping up.

“It happens but I have to be there for my teammates. It’s good to know they have my back as well,” Kampschroeder said. 

The Huskies did not have much time to practice before their game tonight because of the IHSA ruling of moving from tier 1 into phase 4. Although it wasn’t a perfect lead up to a game,  Kickel thinks the team did a great job of absorbing knowledge and giving it their all tonight.

“We had a week of practice before we played so we had to cram it all in. I think we have to work on calling out plays and talking to each other during the game,” Kickel said.

Due to IHSA protocols, all players, coaches and referees had to wear masks. Kampschroeder found it challenging at times but she is glad that she and her team have an opportunity to compete this year. 

“We have been practicing in masks since August so by now we are all used to it. It’s a little bit harder to breathe but we gotta do what we gotta do to stay safe. I’m just happy that we are playing, ” Kampschroeder said.

The Huskies will continue their season on Feb. 12 at the DeKalb Barbs. The game is scheduled to tip-off at 7 P.M.