Tawas started strong, disrupting Alpena’s rhythm early and taking an 11-9 lead at the end of the first quarter. Wildcats head coach Mark Toppi noted that adjustments were necessary to counter Tawas’ defensive pressure.

“We just talked about value in the ball,” Toppi said. “We figured if the main thing we had to do is rebound and take care of the ball, then we’d be okay. So we really put a focus on making sure we had good shots and didn’t force passes.”

The second quarter marked a turning point for the Wildcats.

With 3:30 left in the half, Natalie Maychen and Faith Dragiewicz made critical steals, converting them into points to break the deadlock. Alpena also found success from beyond the arc, with both Grace Cameron and Maychen consistently sinking three-pointers. By halftime, the Wildcats had surged to a 32-20 lead.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Grace Cameron looks to pass to another teammate on Monday during the girls basketball game in Alpena.

Toppi credited Dragiewicz for igniting the team’s energy during the second quarter.

“When she came in, it was like a switch went on,” Toppi said. “She puts pressure on the ball, gets it to the other end quick, and makes good decisions. She’s been sick for four days, so she hadn’t practiced much, but having her in made a big difference.”

The second half showcased Alpena’s ability to maintain momentum, with contributions from key players across the lineup. Kiera Prue emerged as a dominant force in the post, utilizing her strength and footwork to consistently score against tight defense.

“She’s so good in the post, even against two or three players,” Toppi said of Prue. “She’s strong, she’s in the weight room all the time, and her footwork makes her hard to guard.”

With the game firmly in hand, Alpena continued to apply defensive pressure and transition efficiently, extending their lead and sealing the win.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Kiera Prue makes a two-pointer in the third quarter during Alpena’s game against Tawas on Monday. The Wildcats won 62-27.

Looking ahead, Toppi emphasized the importance of maintaining a fast-paced style of play.

“We’ve got it down the floor a little bit better than we have earlier in the year,” he said. “When we play fast, better things happen instead of walking it up and letting them set their defense.”

The Wildcats will aim to build on this strong performance as they prepare for their next challenge against Traverse City Central on Thursday.