After upsetting Olathe North in the first round of substate, the Huskies moved on to face Gardner Edgerton in the final game before moving on to state. Senior Regan Becker said that the team went into the game with a strong mentality, knowing that they had an equal shot at winning.

“We have the mindset going in that we will win,” Becker said. “I think that just kind of showed the confidence we had in each other and in ourselves.” 

Throughout the game, Becker said the team stayed confident but still experienced some nerves, as it was a big game.

“I think there were some nerves there for some people, but that’s a part of the game,” Becker said. 

During the first quarter, both teams exchanged leads with three-point shots. With this, the Trail Blazers kept it close, trailing the Huskies 12-10 at the end of the quarter. As the second quarter began, the Huskies began pulling away from the Trailblazers, ending the half 28-19.

Coming into the second half, the Huskies extended the lead further with consistent shots and rebounds, bringing the lead to 44-28 at the end of the third quarter. As the fourth quarter began, the Huskies continued to pull away with a strong defense, bringing the game to a close with a 52-33 win. 

During the final moments of the fourth quarter, Becker and the team began to realize what they had accomplished after building a strong lead. 

“We really did this,” Becker said. “A lot of people doubted us and thought that our record showed how we were, and I think our record doesn’t prove anything.”

After the game, Head Coach Jeff Piggie said he was proud of the team for their performance and effort. 

“They play hard. They follow the game plan. The deal was that for him, and that’s all I can ask, and I’m very happy for this,” Piggie said. 

With the win, the Huskies advanced to the state tournament in Wichita, Mar. 10. Head coach Piggie said the team will stay focused heading into the next game. 

“We’ll take it one game at a time,” Piggie said.