Kats get back on the winning track

They're getting help from everyone, and that's good news for the Columbia Falls girls basketball team.

Last week, the Wildkats went on the road and downed Ronan 62-40 on Feb. 10 and dropped Whitefish 55-22 the next day.

Against the Bulldogs, Hope Burlage led with 17 points, followed by freshman Ciera Finberg, who had her best game of the year, knocking in 14 points.

"The biggest step we had over the weekend was the girls took their shots when they had the opportunity," coach Cary Finberg said.

Finberg and Winter Kemppainen, both freshmen, are playing much better basketball. Kempainnen had seven against Ronan.

Burlage had her best weekend of the season, not just scoring but also grabbing rebounds. She had 10 boards against Whitefish and nine against Ronan.

Finberg was pleased with the way the team spread the scoring around.

"We had good balance, and that's something we haven't had all year long (until now)," Finberg said. "The entire program is making some strides."

The Kats (6-11, 3-4) wrap up their regular season this week as they host Libby Thursday night. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

Columbia Falls 14 21 13 14 - 62

Ronan 7 11 6 16 - 40

COLUMBIA FALLS - Hope Burlage 15, Madison Sandefer 9, Cortney White 8, Winter Kemppainen 7, Haley Belgarde 9, Kathryn Jetty 2, Ciera Finberg 7, Summer Burlage 3, Kaity Presnell 2.

RONAN - Raymi Clairmont 6, Courtney Clairmont 10, Ashley Grandchamp 12, Alaina Madsen 3, Courtney Taylor 3, Aspen Jore 6.

Columbia Falls 14 8 15 20 - 55

Whitefish 2 11 6 4 - 22

COLUMBIA FALLS - Ciera Finberg 14, Allie Dierenfield 1, Kathryn Jetty 2, Hope Burlage 17, Madison Sandefer 6, Cortney White 7, Winter Kemppainen 2, Haley Belgarde 2, Shannon Hay 6.

WHITEFISH - Ashlee Brewer 18, Ashley O'Dell 2, Simone Craft 2, Melissa Poe 1.