Lady Jayhawks claim MCCAA state championship game with a 74-68 win over Schoolcraft

Early on the Jayhawks had the momentum, going into the halftime break with a convincing 46-28 lead after outscoring Schoolcraft, 18-12 in the first quarter and 28-16 in the second.

Although the Jayhawks still maintained a 17-point lead after the third quarter, they started to lose a little momentum as Schoolcraft outscored them, 17-16 in the period.

Schoolcraft then used a press to generate some quick buckets to start the fourth quarter.

The Jayhawks recovered from that early burst, however, and converted some key free throws to finish with a 74-68 victory and the state title.

“I’m so proud of how the team played tonight,” said Jayhawks coach Jason Cooper. “It was a team effort to get this win.”

Mariah Pringle (Brethren) paced the Jayhawks with 14 points, and also grabbed eight rebounds, dished out five assists and blocked four shots.

Julia Tierman (Mona Shores) scored 13 points, dished out four assists and grabbed five rebounds and Suzan Sisman (Marselisborg) added 10 points.

Ally Sieber (Reeths-Puffer) notched nine points, hauled down seven rebounds and dished out two assists. Trina Lewis (Reeths-Puffer) scored eight points, grabbed eight rebounds and dished out two assists.

Syndney Bol (Fruitport) added eight points and two rebounds, Karleigh Jeffries (Whitehall) contributed six points and three rebounds and Calla Miller (Fremont) scored six points, grabbed five rebounds and picked off three steals.

The Jayhawks will take the court again on Friday, March 4 for regional play at Ballenger Fieldhouse in Flint at 3 p.m.