The Warriors improved to 6-0 with wins against Xavier and Basehor-Linwood last week. TJHS won both games by double figures, handling Xavier 41-26 before surviving Basehor-Linwood, 34-24.

Xavier played an intense first half against the Warriors causing numerous turnovers. Tonganoxie was just a few points ahead until the last minute of the half when Tonganoxie players stretched their lead to seven at the half.

In the third quarter, Tonganoxie increased its intensity on defense, helping the team build on its lead.

Rachel and Rebecca Bogard led the team with 10 rebounds each, while Ali Pistora led the team in assists with four. Shannon Smith and Rachel and Rebecca Bogard each had three assists. Sarah Kotowske came off the bench in the second half and helped the team inside. Scoring for the Warriors were Pistora 12, Rachel Bogard 10, Holly Heintzelman 9, Kotowske 6, and Amie Riddle 4.

“We have had some of the team battling the flu,” coach John Korb said. “The girls were also somewhat nervous at their first really tough games.”

At Basehor-Linwood, the Warriors would have to survive a low-scoring game. Tonganoxie jumped out to an early lead, but the home team didn’t give up, cutting into the Warriors lead several times. The Bulldogs put a box in one on Pistora, trying to slow her offensive output. Other players, though, could be found for scoring, as Rachel Bogard had 13 points. Rachel and Rebecca Bogard led the team in rebounds with 10 and eight respectively, and steals with four each. Rebecca also led the team in assists with five.

“Shannon Smith really did a good job of help side defense,” Korb said. “Both of the Bogard girls really stepped up their game. The second game gave them confidence that each and everyone of them is important to the team.”

Scoring for the Warriors were: Rachel B. 13, Pistora 9, Rebecca B. 7, Holly Heintzelman 4, Amie Riddle 1.