Thunder Ridge’s early lead enough to hold off Highland and advance in district tournament

IDAHO FALLS – The Thunder Ridge girls basketball team is on to the second round of the 6A District 4-5-6 tournament after a convincing 55-34 win Tuesday over Highland.

The Titans led by 10 points after one quarter and upped the lead to 20 midway through the second before pulling away in the fourth.

In between though, the Rams hung around.

“This game, the first half I felt we came out strong, put the pressure on. We didn’t let off the gas.” Titans coach Chelsie Boyle said. “Second half we came out and played back on our heels and let them come against us. It was a little frustrating on that end.”

But, it’s the postseason, which means it’s all about surviving and advancing.

Thunder Ridge, seeded third in the tournament, did just that, maintaining its double-digit lead until the end.

Boyle noted the team likes to shoot 3-pointers and the Titans hit six, but the timing was optimal as Brodie Spencer came off the bench to hit a 3-pointer at the end of the first and then opened the second quarter with a bomb. Kensey Peterson also knocked down two threes in the quarter to keep momentum for the home team.

“Overall I think we’re peaking at the right time and doing some really good things,” Boyle said.

Of the team’s four losses over the past three weeks, one was a 2-point loss to top seed Rigby, an overtime loss to 5A power Pocatello, and a loss to defending 4A state champion Shelley.

Next up for Thunder Ridge (12-9, 5-3) is a road game at No. 2 Madison on Thursday with the winner advancing to the district championship game.

The Bobcats defeated the Titans twice in the regular season.

Boyle noted Thunder Ridge’s lineup is heavy with seniors, but not a lot of extensive varsity experience.

“We’re figuring it out now,” she said.

Avah Lugo led the Titans with 12 points and Allie Nielson added 10.

Nine players scored for Highland, led by Gracee Anderson with 10 points.

The Rams (9-13, 2-6) have lost five straight and host Canyon Ridge on Thursday.