Johnson and Kirscher named to IEL hoop team

SANDPOINT — Sandpoint senior captain Christina Johnson and sophomore newcomer Maggie Kirscher were each named to the 2010 All-Inland Empire League girls basketball team on Monday, as voted on by the league’s coaches.

Johnson averaged 9.5 points and four rebounds per game at power forward, and also led the Bulldogs in steals. While the numbers themselves are solid, it was her toughness and leadership that Bulldogs head coach Lance Bruce most admired.

“She set the example for the entire program; old-school, day-in day-out work ethic,” said Bruce of Johnson. “Loving every day and bringing everything she had. Just a tough presence about her that you don’t find very often, both mentally and physically.”

Kirscher, who transferred from Coeur d’Alene after her freshman season, was named 4A Newcomer of the Year. The low post threat posted 10.5 points and six rebounds per game, and also shot a rock-solid 73 percent from the foul stripe. Using a variety of pump fakes and pivots, she was and handful to guard on the blocks.

“I knew she was an impact player the first time I saw her in open gym. I knew she’d be a go-to player,” said Bruce of his team’s leading scorer. “She has good footwork and is able to finish inside.”

4A IEL girls team

Player of the Year: Abigail Quinnett, 10, Moscow.

Coach of the Year: Brian Quinnett, Moscow.

Newcomer of the Year: Maggie Kirscher, 10, Sandpoint.

IEL team: Chelsea Waters, 10, Moscow; Emily Stecker, 12, Lakeland; Christina Johnson, 12, Sandpoint; Neena Buchmann, 11, Lakeland; Taylor Anderson, 10, Moscow.

5A IEL girls team

Coach of the Year: Pat Teichmer, Lewiston.   

Player of the Year: Katelyn Loper, 12, Post Falls.

Co Newcomers of the Year: Karlee Wilson, 9, Lewiston and Kendalyn Brainard, 9, Coeur d’ Alene.

IEL Team: Nicole Redd, 12, Lewiston; Dayna Drager, 12, Coeur d’ Alene; Sydney Butler, 11, Lake City; Carli Rosenthal, 11, Coeur d’ Alene; Jessica Kramer, 12, Lewiston.