The Renton girls basketball team is still looking at ways to win and struggling to find them. After the Redhawks’ 63-36 loss to Foster on Jan. 5, Renton now sits in fourth with a 4-10 overall record.

After a tough Kent-Meridian game a five point loss to Sammamish and a win over Tyee in between, it seemed like Renton was trending in the right direction. The loss to Foster was a step backward, but not a large one.

“I think we just had an off-night. I believe that they are going to have to decide to come together as a team. I believe they are more than capable to do so,” Head Coach Tim White said.

Renton just couldn’t find a way to get going — the team that played against Foster was not the same team that played Sammamish.

“We weren’t structured and didn’t play our game … We didn’t take our time and run some plays like we did at Sammamish. It could have been a different game,” said White.

White is confident the girls can finish inside the top three in the league when the regular season concludes. But it won’t be an easy road because Renton plays Foster and Sammamish again.

“We’ll be within the top three to go to districts, unless something just falls apart … I think the coaching staff is doing a heck of a job working with them. Last year they (this group) mostly played junior varsity. This year they have lots of heart and enthusiasm,” White said.

Renton has been focusing on looking for small improvements throughout the season. But one thing that remained is work ethic, something that White respects about this group.

“We have a great future, but it is definitely growing pains. We have to teach them to be disciplined and play within the structure,” White said.

Teagan Petek was one of two returners from last year’s state team, along with Leilah Spalding. Those two girls are tasked with being the leaders of the Redhawks and Petek is leading by example. She finished with 12 in the loss to Foster.

“She has great shot making ability. She’s a leader and understands the game and plays hard on both sides,” Assistant Coach Grant Seufferlein said.

Renton is now in the back half of their league season and will take on rival Lindbergh on Jan. 17 on the road.

Teagan Petek takes on contact as she drives to the hoop. Ben Ray / The Reporter

BB Bloodsaw goes to the hoop against Foster. Ben Ray / The Reporter