Reloading never seems to be a problem for Newell-Fonda.

Despite returning only one starter from last year's state runner-up team, the Mustangs are back in the Class 1A semifinals in this, their fourth state tournament trip in five years.

Seventh-ranked Newell-Fonda opened this year's tournament with a 70-42 victory over No. 6 Colo-Nesco, the same team the Mustangs defeated in last year's semifinals. It was just the second loss of the season for the Royals.

Brianna Wells led the way with 21 points, including three 3-pointers. Hailey Falline added 13 points and nine rebounds, while Erin Gerke posted a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds to go with four assists.

Newell-Fonda outrebounded the Royals 45-33 and did a good job getting to the free throw line and converting, making 27 of 37.

Shayla Dean led Colo-Nesco with 15 points and seven assists. Makaelyn Neuendorf contributed 12 points and seven rebounds, while Melanie Van Loon had 10 points and six rebounds.

Newell-Fonda built an early 12-point lead before Colo-Nesco charged back with a 13-4 run that drew the Royals to 26-23 late in the first half. Gerke's free throw gave the Mustangs a four-point lead at the half, and the Mustangs steadily built their lead in the third quarter.

Wells, Newell-Fonda's only returning starter, then ended any Colo-Nesco hopes of a comeback with a personal 10-point run midway through the fourth quarter. She swished two long 3s, then sank four free throws to extend the lead to 68-42.

Newell-Fonda takes a 21-4 record into its semifinal game at 8:30 Wednesday night. Colo-Nesco, in the tournament for the third straight year, finishes 23-2.