Senior Julia Bengtson reached a personal milestone in Becker’s state championship game, becoming the all time high scorer in Becker High School girls basketball history.  She finished her career with 2,074 points, eclipsing the mark of 2,060 career points set by 2007 Becker graduate and former MN Golden Gopher Brianna Mastey.

Bengtson came into the game needing 6 points for the record, but was focused on her defensive assignment of slowing down Marshall’s Jordyn Hilgemann.  Bengtson finished the contest with 20 points and secured her mark in school history.

“I guess it is a cool landmark to pass, but all I truly care about is that we got the state championship,” Bengston said, noting that she has heard of Mastey and her successful career but has never met her.  “That was the goal all along.”

Coach Dan Baird said he was caught up in the flow of the game and didn’t remember Bengtson’s milestone until after it was all over.

“I totally forgot about that [Bengtson’s record] until after the game when we were in the locker room celebrating,” Baird said.  “It’s so funny, but even Julia’s focus was on stopping [Marshall’s] Hilgemann and winning the game.  That being said, it’s really nice Jules got the record doing it the right way!”

While Baird had high praise for his Senior point guard, Bengtson reciprocated the feelings, noting that her coach was instrumental in her record.

“The reason I got to this point is because Coach Baird took a chance on me in 8th grade so I got to play more, which naturally gave me more opportunities because I had more minutes,” Bengtson said.  “I’m very grateful for him and his willingness to take a chance on me … and for my teammates who are equally deserving of recognition because they have worked just as hard.  I believe this [scoring] title should almost have an asterisk with all of their names next to it to because they played a huge role in it!”

Bengtson also learned this week that she is one of five finalists for Minnesota’s Miss Basketball award, which each year recognizes the top player in the state.  The winner will be announced on April 24.