St. Mary's Lady Cardinals Advance To State Tourney

Tough shot - Justine Blumenstock drives to the bucket in action against Randolph last Friday in Battle Creek.

The St. Mary's Lady Cardinals won 53-49 over a very good Randolph Lady Cardinal basketball team, and will advance to the Nebraska State Tournament. Going into this game both teams knew it would be a tough contest. Randolph held a 6-5 advantage early in the first quarter and that would be their last and only lead in the game. SMHjumped out to a 25-11 lead with some very good defense and the ability to knock down several three point baskets. Randolph fought back and narrowed St. Mary's lead up 27-20 before half. Both teams showed up in the second half ready to play St. Mary's aggressive defense caused a lot of problems for Randolph, which kept them out of their half court offense. With just a little over two minutes left in the game Emily Schnoor from Randolph made a layup to bring Randolph within one point 48-47. The next two minutes became a real defensive battle from both teams and points became a premium. Senior Megan Schneider was fouled with under a minute to play, putting her on the charity stripe. The SMH senior came through as she drained the bottom of the net with both free throws. SMH held a 50-47 point lead with time winding down. Randolph was able to cut the lead back to get within one point. After getting the ball pushed back up court Megan received a kick out pass and drilled a high arching three pointer with 40 plus seconds left in the game. Randolph missed several field goal attempts and SMH failed to make the front end ofa couple one and-one shots in the closing seconds. The Cards came out on top 53-49.

Justine Blumenstock led all scorers for St. Mary's with 12 points. Brooke Bauer posted a double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds. Randolph tried shutting Brooke down with a box and one. Brooke was able to make some changes and played  a great game. Jessi Pongratz and Mackenzie Wecker also made their presence known around the glass as they pulled down eight and six rebounds. Jessi Simons played a great defensive game grabbing three steals. Bridgett Schneider dished out five assists before she fouled out of the game early in the fourth quarter. Emily Everitt played a very solid game on both ends of the floor. Our top eight players all scored points and contributed to the huge win. 

"This basketball team has had a very successful season because of the excellent group of student athletes we have on the team. All 18 players have had a role in our 21-4 record They all have challenged each other in practice to make everyone better. The players, student managers, and coaches would like to thank everyone, especially the parents for their support this season," said Coach Viterna.