The Hastings Raiders girls basketball team put together a productive week at home, picking up a pair of wins that showed steady growth on both ends of the floor. Coming in at 6-7, Hastings defended its home court twice, pulling away in the second half in both games to build momentum as January moves along.
Hastings opened the week Tuesday night against Apple Valley, a game that stayed competitive early before the Raiders found their rhythm. The first half featured a quick pace and plenty of trips to the free throw line, with Hastings taking a slim lead into the break. After halftime, the Raiders settled in defensively, limited second chances, and turned rebounds into transition opportunities. The ball moved well through the post and out to shooters, and Hastings gradually built separation as the minutes ticked away. The result was one of the team’s more complete performances of the season, highlighted by balanced scoring and strong rebounding.
Hastings beat Apple Valley 63-40. Violet Schult led with 18 points, Mya Bauer added 15, Shiloh Ashcraft had 11, Piper Brockman scored 6, and Lauren Wagner finished with 5.
Three nights later, the Raiders faced a tougher test against Tartan, which entered the week with a winning record. The Titans jumped out early, using pressure and quick scoring to take a lead into halftime. Hastings stayed composed, made adjustments, and responded with its best half of the week. Defensive stops fueled a strong third quarter run, and the Raiders controlled the glass as the game wore on. Trips to the free throw line helped Hastings extend the lead late, and the home team closed out another solid win in front of its crowd.
Hastings beat Tartan 59-42. Violet Schult led with 13 points, Mya Bauer added 12, Jillian McTague had 11, Piper Brockman scored 10, and Lauren Wagner finished with 4.
The Raiders now turn their attention to a busy stretch ahead, starting with a road game at Minneapolis Camden before returning home for matchups against Big Lake and Mahtomedi. A trip to Two Rivers closes out the stretch, giving Hastings another chance to test its progress as the season moves toward the heart of conference play.