Tune Up Game for Lady Bombers - By Charles Johns

Coming off a blowout win against Hermiston (64-23), the Bomber Girls Basketball Team worked to keep their momentum rolling strong as they faced off against the Bulldogs from Pasco High School. The Bomber Girls accomplished their goal, handing the Bulldogs a 62 to 26 lopsided victory. The Bomber girls are now 2-0 in Conference play, on track to being a favorite to win the MCC.   

Photo courtesy of Megan DeGraaf (RHS Yearbook).

There were limited spots as I pulled into the parking lot at Pasco High School. I’ve always enjoyed this part of going to MCC sporting events, even from a young age with my dad. The parking lot indicated what I hoped would be a packed house. However, this was not the case upon entering the gym. Richland vastly outnumbered the home team, with fans making the short trip across the Columbia River. The Bombers warmed up with quiet confidence, poised to do a job. Although they knew they were the heavy favorite going into this game, it still created a challenge. These games are often called “Get Healthy” games with regards to improving the team’s record -- not only from a win-loss perspective but a chance to gain traction with individual statistics. The challenge is playing to the level of your opponent and flirting with that play becoming a habit. I had the opportunity to ask Coach Westerfield about this, and she said, “We just need to take care of the little things, rebounding and not turning the ball over. Just playing our game.”

Photo courtesy of Megan DeGraaf (RHS Yearbook).

The Bombers would stick to that as they took a quick lead in the first quarter. Senior forward Lexi hay had an impressive first quarter hitting a couple shots and playing great defense. Pasco, a team that had been impressive in recent years and even had a state-run last season, was struggling. The only spark Pasco had was senior guard Mireyah Lopez. It seemed every offensive advance was quickly shut down by the Bomber’s defense. The first quarter would end in a comfortable 17-point cushion for Richland (25-8). 

Photo courtesy of Megan DeGraaf (RHS Yearbook).

The second half was another offensive onslaught by the Bombers, led by senior guard Kylee Fox; Richland seemed unstoppable. Fox helped the team play their game with good defensive instinct and on-court leadership. It seemed like every time Pasco dribbled the ball down that Richland would force a turnover. This was truly a one-sided game. Pasco would only score minimally as the Bombers put up 16 in the second quarter, going into the half up 41-15. 

Photo courtesy of Megan DeGraaf (RHS Yearbook).

Coming out after the half, it was clear the Bombers would come away with the win. They would only put up 11 but kept Pasco to a measly three points in the third quarter. Newcomer Maggie Smith was fun to watch, keeping the tempo consistent on offense with excellent court vision. She seems to be a great addition to this Richland team. Throughout the rest of the game, it was the same story. Richland scores, and Pasco turns the ball over. I had a chance to talk to senior guard Paige Morrow; when asked about the game, she said, “they have different personnel from last year and ...different size”. Paige’s effort and consistency were solid contributors to the Bomber’s win. As mentioned before, Pasco was a solid squad last season, and the change in the team showed tonight. Richland is a well-coached team and seems to have great chemistry. Along with an experienced upper class, it should be exciting to see where the Bombers go.

Photo courtesy of Megan DeGraaf (RHS Yearbook).

Next up for the girls is Chiawanna, a tough team with size to their roster and a rising star in Malia Ruud. This game will be broadcasted on SWX on local television. It should be a must-watch game with some of the best girl’s basketball in the MCC and the state. The Bombers will look to move 3-0 on the season and keep the confidence high. 

Photo courtesy of Megan DeGraaf (RHS Yearbook).