Gallery • 9 Photos

Holding her arms up, Maya Saibel plays tight defense on a Branson player as they move closer to the basket.

On Saturday, Jan. 14, the girls’ varsity basketball team was defeated by Branson by a final score of 53-39. The first quarter ended with Branson ahead 12-7, while the Giants’ defensive effort remained strong. In the second quarter, the girls came back, taking the lead 15-14 because of junior Ru Todd’s diligent work on offense. The girls went into halftime feeling good, leading 25-19. Unfortunately, Branson took the lead in the final two quarters, and the Giants were unable to make a comeback even with sophomore Maya Saibel’s two three-pointers in the last moments of the game. Despite this loss, the Giants will move forward and prepare for their next game against San Marin on Thursday, Jan. 19.