The Hive Sports

by James Tate

In an exciting showdown in Region 1 girls’ basketball, the Davis Darts (12-5) claimed a hard-fought victory over the Fremont Silverwolves (16-3) 57-47. This win served as sweet revenge for an earlier season loss to the Silverwolves and gave the Darts a three-game win streak. The Darts entered the game ranked number 12 in the Max Preps 6A RPI rankings, and the Silverwolves were number six.

Eteuati’s strong first half

The night belonged to junior guard T’Maea Eteuati, who dazzled on the court with an astounding performance, racking up 26 points. Eteuati entered the game as the region’s leading scorer, and her 26 points matched her season high. Alongside her, sophomore Kate Willard added 16 points, proving to be a solid second option for the Darts, while junior guard Chloe Peery chipped in with nine points, rounding out a strong offensive display.

The game began with the Darts maintaining a narrow lead of 11-9 at the end of the first quarter. Eteuati and Willard dominated the scoring with four points each, setting the tone for the game.

In the first contest, Eteuati was held to a season-low four points, and in this game, she was determined to play aggressively and attack the Silverwolves’ defense. Senior Mari Nichols made a three-point basket to give the Darts an 11-4 lead, but Silverwolves sophomore guard Brynn Wadman made a three-pointer, and Abby Christensen made the last basket of the quarter to cut the Darts lead 11-9.

Eteuati kept her hot shooting going in the second quarter, scoring a remarkable 11 points. She propelled the Darts to a 25-18 lead by halftime, showcasing her ability with her three-point shooting and drives to the basket.

Silverwolves’ second-half push

As the second half unfolded, the Darts continued to build their lead. The third quarter was particularly impactful, thanks to Peery’s contribution of seven points. Her sharp shooting and timely baskets helped extend the Darts’ advantage to 42-28. However, the Silverwolves were not ready to concede defeat just yet.

The energized Silverwolves mounted a comeback led by Christensen, who scored 15 points overall. Mia McArthur spearheaded the Silverwolves’ push in the fourth quarter, scoring nine crucial points. The intensity on the court ramped up as Fremont sought to close the gap. Eteuati matched McArthur’s scoring output with nine points in the final quarter, securing the victory for the Darts.

The Davis Darts displayed impressive teamwork in their 57-47 victory. With standout performances from Eteuati, Willard, and Peery, the Darts moved into a second-place tie with the Silverwolves in Region 1.

Outstanding performers

Overall, team defense keyed in the Dart’s victory, led by senior guards Sydney Plummer, Aubrey Simons, and junior Emy Richards. Olivia Surrage scored nine points and made one of the Silverwolves’ seven three-point baskets. Eteuati has scored double figures in 16 of the Darts 17 games this season.

Both teams will face region first-place Syracuse Titans later this month, making the championship battle one to watch for Region 1.

photos courtesy of James Tate