Minot North athletes were busy making noise across multiple sports this past stretch, delivering big wins, standout individual performances, and moments that defined what it means to compete as a Sentinel.
The boys basketball team earned a memorable 72–69 victory on Military Appreciation Night, rallying together for a complete team win in front of a packed home crowd. TJ Hjelmstad, Brayden Blikre, and Josh Myers shared The Sentinel honor after stepping up in key moments and showing resilience from tip to final buzzer. Each made crucial plays down the stretch, helping seal the win in a tightly contested matchup. The night also served as a meaningful thank-you to military families in attendance, recognizing their continued service and sacrifice. The boys return to action Tuesday, January 27, when they host Legacy at 7:45 p.m.
On the girls side, Minot North split a pair of home contests that showcased both dominance and determination. The Sentinels protected home court with an impressive 84–70 win over the Dickinson Mavericks, led by senior Kinzy Welstad. Welstad poured in 24 points while setting the tone with leadership, intensity, and confidence. Her performance earned her the Isaac Award, a reflection of her impact on both ends of the floor. Brayden Blikre also earned The Sentinel recognition for stepping up in a tough defensive matchup, while Cambree Phillips provided a spark with her hustle and energy.
In a later matchup, despite a 60–73 final score, the Sentinels showed heart from start to finish. Cambree Phillips delivered a standout night, scoring 25 points and bringing relentless pressure defensively. Her effort did not go unnoticed, as she earned the Isaac Award for her grit, leadership, and refusal to back down. While the result didn’t fall Minot North’s way, the performance reflected the toughness and unity of this group.
United Hockey kicked off its senior spotlights by honoring Jaxon Dahl. A longtime player who has been on the ice since the age of three, Dahl credits his music as his pregame superstition and lists playing at the Ralph as his favorite hockey memory. Despite an early varsity mishap, falling three times in his first shift, Dahl has remained persistent, offering advice to younger players to stay committed and remember why they play. Following graduation, he plans to pursue Mechanical Engineering in college.
In the pool, boys swimming continued a demanding slate of meets. At the West Fargo Invite on January 31, the Sentinels placed 10th with a team score of 108.5 against a deep field of state competition. Gavin Diede delivered a highlight moment by state-qualifying, marking a major accomplishment for the program. Earlier, Minot North placed 8th at the Minot Invite on January 24 with a score of 153, competing against schools from across the state. The Sentinels also picked up a strong dual win over West Fargo Horace, defeating the Hawks 116–64 on January 23. Additional meets included tough contests against Minot High, Jamestown, and other regional opponents, continuing to build experience and momentum as the season progressed.
Across the court, ice, and pool, Minot North athletes continue to represent their school with pride, resilience, and relentless effort. With key matchups ahead and postseason preparation underway, the Sentinels remain focused, unified, and ready for whatever comes next.
