Basketball: Highland Bears defeated Dundee Madsons in Inverness

Highland Bears under-14 girls team continued their exceptional start to the national league season thrashing Dundee Madsons by 89 – 24.

The win consolidates the Bears at the top of the 12-team league and as the only undefeated side while also scoring 50 percent more points than any of their rivals. The Bears depth of talent is evident as they still travelled with a full complement of twelve players without both of their international players who were required for the clubs under-16 Scottish Cup quarter final on the same day in Glasgow.

It was yet again the Bears dominant centre Chloe Sanderson who won the opening tip-off and then from the resulting assist from Esmee Wilson drove to the hoop to score within nine seconds.

Throughout the game Chloe proved unstoppable on her way to a game high and an impressive season best of 30 points. With further performances like that international recognition is not far away. As it will be for Bears captain Lexi Kershaw who continued with her confident game awareness and unselfish ball distribution, along with her accurate shooting resulting in her own season best of a very impressive 28 points.

Further assists from the secure hands of guard Esmee Wilson enabled Olivia MacLennan (10 points) to benefit from the free space she developed off the Bears set plays, while Esmee proved her shooting capabilities where on form with 11 points.

Dundee found it hard to penetrate the Bears defence as the twin pillars of Jessica Waldie and Isla Devlin swotted away all threats.

The welcome return of Emma MacMillan was a joy for the team, scoring in every period for eight points while Hannah Thomas's (2 points) enthusiasm and positive play failed to net the deserved rewards.

Excellent team performances yet again from Lucy Sanderson and Eva Skinner contributed to the Bears total team control while making their national league debuts for the club were Amelie Irish and Grace Watt who relished the fast pace of the game and impressed all the coaches.

With Head Coach Ross Waldie adding "Strong defensive play from all 12 girls allowed for some free-flowing fast breaks and structured offensive play, which was very impressive and pleasing allowing us to maintain a strong lead throughout the match against a spirited Dundee side.

"The club host City of Edinburgh this Saturday afternoon at Inverness Royal Academy Sports Complex with a 1:20pm tip-off.

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