Believe it or not, the 4A IEL Regional Tournament is around the corner.

In preparation for the Bulldogs’ biggest games of the year, the Bee will highlight one (or two) Sandpoint girls basketball players every issue in the first-ever SHS Basketball Player-a-Day series

The countdown resumes with junior wing Brooklen Steiger.

With the first eight minutes of IEL play in the books, Sandpoint Bulldogs held a tenuous 9-8 lead over the Moscow Bears. Neither team was shooting particularly well, both teams’ stars were held in check and thoughts of the Bulldogs’ dreaded slow starts crept through the minds of the crowd.

Then junior wing Brooklen Steiger checked in the game.

Steiger made an impact on the game in less than 90 seconds. Her first two shots went in, giving her team a seven point lead before the Bears could blink. Then on Sandpoint’s next few possessions, Steiger dished it out to teammates Kaylee Banks and Dawson Driggs.

Before the quarter was finished, Steiger fought for a tough defensive rebound, then forced a tie-up on the other end.

Her final stat-line? Six points, two assists, a steal and a rebound.

Fortunately for the Bulldogs, Steiger has played in one gear this season: all-out. She makes the most of all of her opportunities on the court. This, plus her inspiring toughness under the basket, makes her an important spark-plug off the bench.

Game of note: vs. Moscow

In Will Love’s words: “Brooklen is a competitor who brings a toughness to our team. Brooklen has become a versatile player that can play on the perimeter or in the post, and she always seems to be around the ball.”