HUXLEY — On Friday night the Ballard women's basketball team went toe to toe with the state's number one ranked Dallas Center Grimes Mustangs ultimately falling 57–39 in a hard fought early season test.

The Mustangs opened with a 10–4 lead in the first quarter but the Bombers responded with a strong second frame putting up 15 points and settling in defensively.  At halftime Ballard trailed just 26–19 before the Mustangs' depth and efficiency carried them through a decisive third quarter.

Sophomore Kaylor Johnson anchored the Bombers finishing with 8 points 9 rebounds 4 steals and 3 assists while battling inside against one of the state's toughest frontcourts.

Freshman Grace Polewik provided a spark off the bench knocking down two threes on her way to 10 points while sophomore Maci Harder added 7 points 2 rebounds and 2 blocks.  Sophomore Olivia Wacha contributed 4 points 4 rebounds and 4 assists playing a steady floor game in the backcourt.

The Bombers shot 42.9 percent from three and collected 28 rebounds including 10 on the offensive glass showing promising signs as the season gets underway.

Despite the loss Friday's matchup offered valuable experience against elite competition and plenty of positives to build on.  The Bombers now sit at 0–1 overall and 0–0 in conference play.

Photo Credit: Davidson Photography