The Wagner JV girls battled to the very end but came up just short in a 41-39 overtime loss in another hard-fought contest.

On paper, it was a game that could have easily swung the Raiders’ way. The effort and competitiveness were there throughout, as Wagner attacked the rim and put constant pressure on the defense. In fact, getting to the free-throw line 34 times was a testament to the team’s aggressive mindset.

However, the difference came at the stripe. The Raiders converted 14-of-34 free throws, and those missed opportunities proved costly in a tight game that needed extra time to decide. As the season progresses, focusing on fundamentals — especially capitalizing on free-throw chances — will be key, and the rest should fall into place for this determined squad.

Clarah Soukup led Wagner in scoring with 14 points. Peytyn Wiechmann added eight, while Valencia Big Bear chipped in six. Camry Link finished with five points, and Olivia Podzimek and Mila Hopkins each contributed three.

Though the result didn’t go their way, the Raiders’ fight and ability to generate opportunities continue to stand out — and with refinement in the fundamentals, close games like this could soon turn into wins.