The energy inside the CEFCU Arena was electric as the St. Edward girls basketball team stepped onto the court, representing their school at the state tournament on Thursday, March 5th. Through wins and losses, the girls worked incredibly hard to get here. They fought through tough games and worked together as a team to improve every week. Competing at the state tournament was an unforgettable experience for the players, coaches, parents, and student body. A fan bus full of students cheered them on; school was canceled for the day, and the entire week featured dress-down days to support. Many upperclassmen carpooled together, traveling all day to be there for the team. Facing some of the best teams in the state, the players showed determination, teamwork, and resilience throughout each game. Their hard work paid off as they finished in fourth place overall.
The team’s first game of the tournament tipped off at 4:40 p.m. against Byron High School. It was a competitive match from start to finish between the Green Wave and the Tigers, with both teams battling for the lead throughout the game. The pace of the game was intense, with constant motion up and down the court as both teams pushed the ball quickly and fought for scoring opportunities. The girls stayed within striking distance thanks to key plays from several players. #2 Savannah Lynch contributed important free throws. Helping keep the game close in the later quarters, #22 Layne Dawson and #30 Jordin Sauls also added key baskets as the team fought to keep pace with Byron. Despite the strong effort and determination shown on the court, Byron ultimately came away with a 49-43 victory.
After their close battle with Byron, the girls took time to rest and refocus before preparing for their next challenge. Later that evening, they stepped back onto the court for their final game of the season against Pleasant Plains at 8:15 p.m. The matchup featured two strong teams, with St. Edward entering the game with an impressive 27-0 record and Pleasant Plains holding a 31-3 record. Both teams averaged over 50 points per game throughout the season, showing just how competitive the matchup was expected to be. The girls gave it their all on the court, continuing to show the determination and teamwork that carried them through the whole season.
Although the season came to an end that night, the team’s fourth-place finish at the state tournament is something the players, coaches, and school community can be extremely proud of. Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork throughout the season helped them reach one of the biggest stages in high school basketball. The experience at the state tournament will be remembered as an incredible accomplishment for the program and a meaningful way to send off the seniors, who have left their mark on the team. Head Coach Dawson guided the players with skill, dedication, and encouragement, shaping a season filled with many achievements. After the final buzzer, our girls made their way home on a two-and a-half-hour journey carrying with them memories, lessons, and pride that will last far beyond this season.
