The Wildcats started strong, holding an 18-9 lead at halftime.

“I think our defense had a lot to do with that,” senior Kiera Prue said. “We played really good help-side defense, and Faith (Dragiewicz) did a great job guarding one of their best players.”

Prue also credited the team’s ability to capitalize on fast breaks and inside opportunities for their early success.

Traverse City West mounted a comeback in the third period with several three-pointers, narrowing the gap.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Natalie Maychen hols onto the ball to maintain possession in Thursday night’s game where Alpena played Traverse City West at home. AHS lost 41-37 in overtime.

The fourth period saw multiple lead changes, with Prue contributing key points, including a crucial free throw that tied the game in the final minute of regulation. With 50 seconds remaining, Traverse City West called a timeout, and the game ended tied at 32, forcing overtime.

In overtime, both teams continued to battle.

Traverse City West scored a three-pointer early, but Alpena’s Natalie Maychen responded quickly to keep the Wildcats within reach.

Prue tied the game again with a free throw, while Reaghan Fitzpatrick added two clutch free throws to even the score at 37-37. However, Traverse City West regained the lead in the final moments with a rebound and two-pointer, sealing their 41-37 victory.

Despite the loss, Prue emphasized the team’s determination and resilience.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Reaghan Fitzpatrick steals the ball from a Traverse City West player in Thursday’s girls basketball game in Alpena. Alpena plays St. Clair next on Dec. 27.

“There wasn’t a time where I felt like we were giving up,” she said. “We kept up the entire game. Reagan had some clutch free throws, Natalie had a clutch steal, and Faith had a clutch steal. We all just pushed through and tried our best.”

Prue also highlighted the team’s ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially given their relatively young and small roster.

“It shows that we can still push through, show effort, and fight,” she said.

The Wildcats play St. Clair next on Dec. 27.