Cooper tops Minnehaha Academy in girls basketball

With a veteran, quick team, Cooper has one of its best ever girls basketball teams this winter. The Hawks moved up to the top spot in the class AAA rankings last week, and they know that will put a target on their backs. Thursday night at Cooper, Minnehaha Academy, ranked eighth in class AA, came to play. The RedHawks had the lead for much of the first half before Cooper closed to within 26-25 at the break. Minnehaha came out strong in the second half as well, building eight-point leads on a couple of occasions. Cooper’s pressure defense and strength on the offensive boards eventually paid dividends as the Hawks rallied to win 65-57. Kierra Wheeler had 23 points and Aja Wheeler 13 to lead Cooper. Mia Curtis scored 19 to lead Minnehaha Academy. Cooper (6-1) plays in the Roseville holiday tournament next week.