Keeping Score

Bigfork Valkyries gear up for Western A Divisionals

Daily Inter Lake

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The Bigfork Valkyries are officially heading to Hamilton as the Western A #1 seed, and the atmosphere at practice is electric. In this episode of Keeping Score, host Luke Schmit goes behind the scenes to talk with the key figures driving this championship push. Senior standout Paeten Gunlock discusses the unique pressure of being the final member of her storied basketball family to play at Bigfork, her transition into a leadership role, and her future playing for Carroll College. 

Joining her is teammate Payton DeSpain, who highlights the team's fierce competitiveness and the "loyal" culture that keeps them grounded under pressure. Finally, first-year head coach Isaac Martel opens up about the privilege of coaching in the same gym where he played varsity ball and how he’s navigating the transition from volunteer to head coach while managing the high expectations of a postseason run.

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