Bloomington Kennedy is sporting one of the youngest and most talented teams in the state, featuring three freshmen and a point producing sophomore. Typically, fresh faces will take some time to adapt and adjust to Minnesota’s highest level of basketball.

It took the Eagles youngsters about two or three games.

“They’re fast growers,” coach Percy Wade said, after freshman Kenisha Bell drained the game-winning shot to beat Class 3A defending state champion Benilde-St. Margaret’s 51-49 Saturday afternoon.

Bell and Tonoia Wade, the coach’s daughter, are the Eagles’ impact freshman, scoring 18 and 15 points, respectively, in the dramatic victory over the Red Knights. Isieoma Odor also stepped in and played well, warranting approval from Wade and the possibility of increased playing time.

“I think my young girls were the ones that pulled us out today,” Wade said. “It was a team effort there.”

Sophomore Jade Martin has been on a tear, averaging 15.3 points early in the season.

Bloomington Kennedy lost a tight game to Eden Prairie on Friday night by only five points. Saturday’s big win should help launch the Eagles into their tough schedule.

“It will give them some confidence and give them something to believe in themselves,” Wade said. “It just let them know that they can compete with anybody in the state. So that’s what it’s all about at this point.”

Saturday’s winning shot maker and leading scorer believes the victory is an important stepping stone to beat a defending state champion early in the season.

“They won state,” Bell said. “We’re trying to get there.”