Olpe and Waverly advanced to the Olpe 1A regional finals with semi-final wins Thursday.
In the first semi-final game, Waverly dominated Hartford defensively to pick up a 57-45 win. Waverly would fall behind to Hartford 17-14 early in the second quarter before a 20-12 run would give the Lady Bulldogs a 32-23 lead at the half.
In the third quarter, Waverly held Harford to just six points and despite being outscored by Hartford 16-13 in the fourth would never give up the lead as they advanced to Saturday’s championship game.
Waverly Head Coach Ty Piper says strong play in the second half made a big difference.
Waverly was led in scoring by sophomore Sara McWilliams with 20 points. Junior Bailey Darbyshire led Hartford with 17 points.
In the second semifinal game, Olpe would outscore Southern Coffey County in the first half 46-8 en route to 69-24 victory. In the second half, Olpe would continue the dominance, despite stronger shooting by SCC, outscoring the Lady Titans 23-16.
Coach Jesse Nelson says despite the win, he feels there is still some rust to be shaken off before Saturday.
Olpe was led in scoring by senior Emma Miller with 15 points. SCC was led by senior Haven Harvey with 7.
With the wins both Waverly and Olpe have also secured their spots for the sub-state tournament next week.
1A Lebo Regional:
Rural Vista 62 Lebo 25 – girls
Burlingame 51 Centre 48 – girls
1A Moundridge:
Chase County 53 Flint Hills 44 – girls vs Berean Academy Saturday.
