The girls varsity basketball team defeated Wichita East in the state semifinal game 54-49 March 12. The Huskies will go on to play Shawnee Mission South in the state championship game March 14 at Charles Koch Arena.
According to senior Regan Becker, this is the first time in 11 years that the girls basketball team has made it to substate. Becker said she looks forward to the opportunity to play in the championship and said her and the team are taking a positive attitude toward the game.
“Our mindset is we will win and that is a mindset now for the last four games,” Becker said. “I just think we’re gonna grind it out.”
Throughout the first quarter, the Huskies got started with consistent defence and multiple steals against the Blue Aces, putting the Huskies ahead 16-12.
During the second quarter, the Blue Aces came out aggressive, with defensive pressure and rebounds. Despite this, the Huskies stayed ahead, ending the first half 23-19. Senior Molly Numerich said mindset and staying focused are important when the opposing team plays aggressively.
“Part of that is staying calm [and] not getting in your head,” Numerich said. “You can’t control them but you can control what you do.”
Head Coach Jeffery Piggie said he knew that they needed to improve coming into the second half.
“We knew we didn’t play well. Our seniors stepped up in leadership,” Piggie said. “I challenged my seniors to bring it home, and they did that.”
As the third quarter began, the Blue Aces caught up with the Huskies, keeping the score close as the quarter went on. During the final moments of the third quarter, the Huskies made multiple shots, bringing their lead to 41-35.
In the fourth quarter, the Huskies and the Blue Aces exchanged baskets, keeping the game close and intense throughout the quarter. With seconds left on the quarter, the Huskies extended the lead with free throws, ending the game 54-49.
Piggie said the team stayed composed during the final moments of the game, as the score was close.
“Just stay together, and we stay together with a win and with preparation,” Piggie said.
