By Jeremy Martin

Chief Sealth was physical, it rebounded, it ran, it fought for 32 minutes but in the end a 12-1 first quarter run by the visiting Lakeside Lions put the Ladyhawks in too deep of a hole as Sealth dropped a Wednesday night heartbreaker 58-29.

The young Ladyhawks used a balanced attack to hang for two and a half quarters with a senior laden Lakeside squad before the Lions used its size advantage and smooth outside shooting to eventually seal the game.

Though it fell behind early, Sealth refused to be muscled out of the game, battling to a near draw on the glass, losing only 35-32.

As usual, O’Shae Walker led the charge for the Ladyhawks racking up 11 points while also pulling dowd 5 rebounds.

Freshman Sydney Thomas worked hard underneath, coming away with a game high 8 rebounds, while sophomores Allison Hadaway and Lani Taylor both contributed with 5 rebounds apiece.

Allison Steele was another offensive weapon netting 6 points to go with her 5 rebounds.

Having fallen behind by double digits, the Ladyhawks began to hit some shots late in the first half, pulling to within six following a corner three pointer from Steele.

The forward found herself open on the right wing, received the ball in shooting position and immediately nailed the jumper.

It was an unlikely shot from a player known more for her rebounding than for her outside stroke, but it none the less helped energize the home team and its crowd.

Steele would hit a second three pointer during the opening minute of the third quarter; her un-called bank shot from the right elbow drew a lively applause from the crowd and laughs from her teammates on the bench.

Sealth also received a spark from Labrea Denson, a freshman point guard who had played sparingly during the early part of the season. The young guard flashed an array of ball skills, slick passes and at times un-guardable quickness.

Sealth’s youngsters showed plenty of potential for the future, but in the end this night belonged to Lakeside.

Four Lions scored in double digits led by Kimijah King who was a menace on both ends of the court dropping 11 points to go with 7 rebounds and 5 steals.

Christina Cheledinas had 13 points for Lakeside while Lauren Estell netted 10.
Sealth played without regular starting point guard Bella Cruz De Bonar who did not suit up for the contest.