AUDUBON — With very few exceptions the Panorama girls basketball team will be a new creation this season.
Gone to graduation are 932 of 1,336 points and 523 of 729 rebounds, as well as almost the entire cast of starters and regular reserves. New also is head coach Kylie Boettcher, who knows her team will need time to learn the intricacies of playing together, to say nothing of competing at the varsity level.
Panorama visited Audubon Thursday for a two-quarter jamboree outing with Exira/Elk Horn-Kimballton, giving the Panther coaches a first look at their team in game-like conditions.
The Spartans trailed, 15-13, after one frame, but then rolled off 19 consecutive points to post a 37-26 win. Panorama did not score in the second frame until sophomore Payton Beckman splashed a 3-pointer more than halfway through the period.
Despite the setback, Boettcher was pleased with what she saw.
“We are glad we played someone like them (E/EH-K) who plays physical and aggressive,” she said. “They provided us an opportunity to evaluate where we are offensively and defensively.”
“We liked seeing the girls get on the floor for loose ball and attack the basket offensively,” Boettcher added.
Beckman led the team with seven points, with Angel Poldberg adding five points. Anna Holloway, Laci Rishel and Ella Waddle had four points apiece, with Shey Storesund adding two points. Although not scoring, both Grace Webner and Gabby Welberg saw time on the floor.
Panorama opens play by hosting Harlan Tuesday. They are then off until being joined by the Panther boys for a WCAC set against visiting Woodward-Granger Dec. 6.
