As basketball has started up for Eaton, the Reds are preparing to make a comeback from their rough start to the season. Following a devastating loss to Platte Valley on Wednesday, Jan. 7, the team has been working hard in practice to find its rhythm. The girls have been tightening their defense and working on clear, effective communication on the court.
During their game on the following Friday, Jan. 2, their hard work showed on the court against the Highland Huskies with a final score of 73-60. Eaton diminished Highlands’ nine-game winning streak at their home court, but Highlands successfully scored more points during this game than they had in any other game with their coach. Saryiah Gaona (12) was a key player during the Eaton Reds vs Highland Huskies game with 16 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. Alongside Gaona, Courtney Steinkamp (11) scored 26 points with 13 boards. Harley Forster (12) emphasized that the team’s spirits have remained high, and despite the setbacks early in the season, the Lady Reds are determined to take control and turn it around for future games.
Forster said, “It’s been rocky, just getting used to one another, but as we’ve grown together, we’ve gotten so much better. I hope we play to our full potential and make a run for state.” With plenty of games left, the Eaton girls’ basketball team hopes to build enough momentum to prove that they can compete with the other higher-ranked teams later on in the season.
One of the biggest moments so far in the 2025-2026 girls basketball season was Courtney Steinkamp scoring her 1,000th point in her career as a leader on the team. While being the leader in points, she is also top on the team for rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks per game. Steinkamp’s scoring of 1,000 points is a significant accomplishment that showcases the hard work and grit she has invested over the years.
Steinkamp said, “Reaching 1,000 points was a special milestone for me, as a lot of hours have been put in trying to become a better player on the court. It takes more than just making baskets, though. It takes 2.5 years of good teammates and coaching to reach this goal of mine.” Steinkamp has been nothing short of inspirational on the court for her team and the fans watching. After reaching this milestone, she has highlighted the importance of leadership and teamwork. She said, “I was fortunate to have had good role models and leaders as an underclassman my freshman and sophomore year, and have been able to use those leaders and their styles to help me become a better leader myself.” Steinkamp insists that her coaching and teammates have helped her and have played a big role in her successful basketball career.
No matter the obstacles being thrown at the girls’ basketball team, they have learned the importance of playing together to win and have fun. The Fighting Reds play on Friday, Jan. 9, against Fort Morgan. They hope to showcase grit, hard work, and continue their momentum by clinching another win.
