Perham Girls Basketball Rout Barnesville, Advance To 9 1

Perham High School used a dominant defensive performance to build a lopsided win over visiting Barnesville on December 22. After falling behind early, Perham surged with a 19 to 2 run that swung momentum and left Barnesville unable to recover. The Hornets closed the game 69 to 33 and collected meaningful statistics on the defensive end, forcing nine turnovers and hauling in 24 defensive rebounds.

The win reinforced a defensive identity that has underpinned Perham's strong start this season. Coach TJ Super noted that defensive intensity has become the team hallmark, and the box score reflected that emphasis through turnovers created and second chance opportunities limited by the opponent. Bench players provided complementary scoring and energy, helping sustain the run and preserve depth late in the game.

Several players stood out in the stat line. Kaia Anderson led the offensive push as Perham pulled away in the middle quarters. Seventh grader Claire Pilgrim supplied 10 points and three steals, a notable contribution from a young player developing under varsity minutes. Guard Ashtyn Kunza paced the team in playmaking with five assists and also grabbed seven rebounds, anchoring perimeter ball movement and transition defense.

The win moves Perham to 9 to 1 on the season and keeps the Hornets near the top of Heart O’ Lakes Conference standings heading into the holiday break. Perham will host the Holiday Hoops at the Hive, opening the tournament against New York Mills on December 29. That tournament provides a chance to test the roster against regional opponents and to showcase attendance and community support for high school athletics during a busy winter sports calendar.

For local residents, the game highlights the program's depth and the emergence of younger contributors, both of which matter for long term competitiveness and community engagement. With defense as a stated focal point, Perham enters the Holiday Hoops with momentum and growing expectations from supporters across the district.