BY ROBERT PRZYBYLO Oklahoman Leave a comment
The Bishop McGuinness girls had been knocking on the door of a state tournament appearance. This year they busted it down.
There was no disappointment in area as the Irish took care of Western Heights to clinch their first berth since 2004. Coincidentally, that was the last time McGuinness was in Class 5A.
Post players Elyse Hight and Alexa Lienhard have spurred the charge. Lienhard is the heart of the club, while Hight is one of the best finishers in the post in the state. Caroline Cameron has bounced back from a torn ACL last year to be a vital cog this season.
The girls will be able to get rid of the nerves early as the Irish are in the first game at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Mabee Center at Oral Roberts . McGuinness plays Tulsa Rogers in the quarterfinals.
Last year was the Carl Albert team that was supposed to take the crown. With Kylie Mayes and Desiree Bradley leading an experienced club, the Titans were one of the favorites.
It didn't work out that way and this year looked to be a rebuilding year. It hasn't been, as coach Tim Price has reloaded.
Senior Cherrell Price has come up big down the stretch, while sophomore Gioya Carter is already turning heads with her scoring ability.
Carl Albert goes up against Tulsa Washington in an anticipated matchup at 8:30 p.m. Thursday.
It's been a season to remember for Shawnee . The Wolves posted their first 20-win regular season. But topping that was Saturday, when Shawnee defeated Deer Creek to clinch its first state tournament berth in school history.
Coach Wendi Wells has helped turn around the program and made the Wolves a viable threat to the crown.
Junior Kelsee Grovey leads the team, but Shawnee has been able to get other girls to contribute when teams focus on Grovey.
Shawnee takes on Tulsa Memorial at 7 p.m. Thursday in the quarterfinals.
After an uneven regular season, Western Heights found its footing in the final month of the season.
Led by post Dilan Webster , the Jets are headed to state. Their reward? A showdown with top-ranked Tulsa East Central.
The Cardinals lost in the finals last season and have played like a team on a mission all season.
Robert Przybylo , Tulsa Washington: Trying to keep pace with the boys team. Focus is back after regional loss.
Scott Wright , Bishop McGuinness: Veteran lineup is ready to break through and win gold.
Source:
No comments:
Post a Comment