The Mercer Island High School girls basketball team began their season with a non-conference game against Redmond at Redmond High School Tuesday, Dec. 3. The Islanders beat the Mustangs 57-49.

Mercer Island jumped out to a 13-7 lead in the first quarter before the Mustangs stormed back in the second quarter, heading into halftime with Redmond leading 23-21. But Mercer Island came out strong in the second half, reclaiming the lead to close out the third quarter ahead 41-35 and eventually holding on for the victory.

Julia Blumenstein led the Islanders in scoring with 15 points and Jess Blakeslee had 13 points. Taylor Krause scored 9 points, while Suri Johnson and Rachel Tessem each contributed 8 points. Renae Tessem added 4 points for Mercer Island.

Next up, the Islanders face Sammamish Friday, Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Mercer Island High School.