By Nick Beversdorf
Reporter
Girls varsity basketball has won the Regional Championship after a stunning victory over Shawano Saturday night.
The girls played exceptionally well during the entire game, holding a double digit lead from the middle of the first period all the way to the end. A combination of constant 2-point field goals and free throws helped solidify the lead. The final score was 58-38.
Anna Finnell lead the scoring with 20 points, 16 of which came from 2-point field goals. Other scoring leaders include Lindsey Casper with 14 points, Maddix Bonnell with 8 points and Emily Page and Chelsey Lamonic with 6 points.
“I simply can’t say enough about how well they played,” comments Coach Ross Reinke.
This game comes off the heels of a very close call against Antigo the day before. During that game the girls were down almost the whole time, only managing to tie the game during the last minute of regulation . It was during overtime that the team seemed to have switched gears and played like they did against Shawano. The Bluejays ended up beating Antigo 60-53 (1OT).
With this victory in the books, the girls will advance to the sectional semi-finals of Division 2 of the Valley Conference.
“It feels absolutely great going into the semi-finals,” adds Reinke. “We can’t wait.”
Girls varsity basketball will face Hortonville at Wausau East on Thursday, March 3rd at 7:00 pm.
Merrill-Shawano Stats:
MRL: 29 29-58. FT: 10-16 (63%)
SHW: 18 20-38. FT: 4-5 (80%)
