By TYLER HENRY
Salina Post contributor
As the December portion of high school hoops draws to a close around the state, the Abilene and Chapman girls’ basketball teams will meet for one final battle before the new year, renewing their rivalry with a great deal on the line.
For Chapman (3-2) this game is an opportunity to cement their status as an above .500 team going into the new year, after a big bounce-back win over Marysville.
“I was proud of our efforts in that game,” Lady Irish head coach Michael Wahlmeier said. “I never felt that the game against Marysville was in doubt for us. It seemed like every time we needed a bucket someone would step up and make a play. Maya in particular really put the team on her shoulders and carried us offensively.”
For Abilene (0-5), this contest could help them get one step closer to turning the corner after facing a great deal of adversity to start their season.
“This group knows they are getting better each week,” Cowgirl head coach Shawn Herrman said. “We have been riddled with sickness and injuries in the early part of this season but this group is resilient and we have had several players step up in other players’ absences.”
As these two rivals prepare to go toe to toe for yet another critical matchup, both communities will brace for a game that rarely disappoints regardless of resumes.
“We bought a traveling trophy to represent more of what’s on the line in this game,” Wahlmeier said. “I don’t know what the overall record is between the two teams but we are undefeated since last year and we want to keep it that way. We know it means a lot to people in the community and we hear a few more “good games” after a win over Abilene.”
On the Cowgirl's end of this matchup, it will be critical that Abilene value each possession, and respect all five positions on the floor on the Chapman side.
“Chapman shoots the ball extremely well and their guard play is really good,” Herrman said. “They also have a post presence so you have to respect both their inside and outside games. Our keys will be in rebounding and maximizing our possessions by taking care of the basketball and getting good shots.”
For Chapman to cruise into the break at 4-2, the Lady Irish will need to continue playing with the confidence that got them here, and find answers for an Abilene roster that when playing together and healthy, can cause some real problems.
“Abilene has some size,” Wahlmeier said. “The Dannefer girl can take over a game if you let her. We need to keep them off the boards and limit their opportunities. We just have to play our game, be solid on defense, and rotate defensively when someone gets beat. We are playing better team defense lately and that should be a positive for us.”
Tip-off between the Cowgirls and Lady Irish is set for 6 pm at Abilene High School with the boy’s game to follow at 7:30.
For continuing coverage of both programs all season long stay tuned to the Salina Post.