Pacelli girls basketball continues turn around

By John Kemmeter
Following a nine-year stretch that saw the program win a total of 40 games, the Pacelli Catholic High School girls basketball has put itself in contention for a Conference Title this season.

Senior forward Morgan Kuckkahn (20) drives to the basket during the Pacelli Catholic High School girls basketball team’s 49-40 win over Osseo-Fairchild at the 46th Sentry Classic at Bennett Court at Quandt Fieldhouse Saturday, Dec. 30.
(John Kemmeter photo)
The Cardinals brought back 10 players from a year ago, and have continued to progress under second-year head coach Jake Jalling.
Pacelli improved to 10-3 this season with a 57-27 win at Wild Rose Tuesday, Jan. 9, and is set to host Port Edwards at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, in a battle of teams tied for second place in the newly-formed Central Wisconsin Conference (CWC) South.
“So far, it’s been great,” said Jalling. “We’re growing yet and we’re figuring out ways to win, just because we haven’t had a lot of winning in this program.
“For so long we were getting beat by 20, 30 points before this,” he said. “And to be down and to be able to battle back and learn how to battle, that’s huge for us.”

Pacelli Catholic High School girls basketball head coach Jake Jalling talks to senior point guard Jenelle Higgins during a break in action in the Cardinals’ 49-40 win over Osseo-Fairchild at the 46th Sentry Classic at Bennett Court at Quandt Fieldhouse Saturday, Dec. 30.
(John Kemmeter photo)
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