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ALBA — The Hillman Varsity girl’s basketball team made a loud statement in the opening round of the district playoffs, dismantling the Alba Wildcats 61-26 on Monday against Gaylord Saint Marys.

Behind a relentless rebounding effort and a balanced scoring attack, the Tigers secured their spot in the next round with a performance that left little room for doubt.

The story of the night was Hillman’s command of the glass. Abigail Oswald put up a monster double-double, leading all scorers with 13 points while pulling down a staggering 19 rebounds.

She wasn’t alone in her efforts; Brook Linseman proved to be a force in the paint as well, nearly matching that output with nine points and 17 rebounds of her own.

The Tigers’ offense moved with precision, finding contributions across the roster: Madelyn Oswald had 12 points and four steals, Maci Klein had eight points, five rebounds, and four steals; Jenna Bahrke had seven points, two assists, and two steals.

Hillman’s defensive pressure was equally impressive, with Madelyn Oswald and Maci Klein combining for eight steals to disrupt the Wildcats’ rhythm and transition into easy baskets.

With the first-round hurdle cleared, the Tigers now turn their attention to a heavyweight matchup. Hillman is set to square off against the district semifinals.

The game will take place Wednesday in Alba, with tip-off scheduled for 5:30 p.m.