Elk River is two years removed from an undefeated season that culminated with a Class 4A state championship, and following 10-16 finish last season, the Elks have returned to their winning ways.
Elk River carries a five-game winning streak into the week, but extending that run could prove challenging as the Elks have three contests in the next six days, including one against a possible postseason opponent on Saturday when St. Michael-Albertville comes to town.
Lydia Haack will be key in helping Elk River (14-4, 6-2) pass with flying colors, especially against the No. 5-4A Knights. She averages a team-high 15.8 points per game and registered a season-high 30 points in a 58-29 win over Coon Rapids on Jan. 4.
St. Michael-Albertville boasts three losses, all against top 10-ranked opponents in Class 4A, and sit firmly atop the Mississippi 8 Conference standings. The Knights (16-3, 7-0) can now turn their focus to securing the top seed in the Class 4A, Section 8 tournament, and a win over Elk River would only bolster their case.
Kenzie Kramer leads the Knights in points (14.9) and assists (2.9) per game this season.