Dundy County-Stratton wins first NSAA Girls Basketball State Title скачать в хорошем качестве

Dundy County-Stratton wins first NSAA Girls Basketball State Title

Dundy County-Stratton captured its first girls basketball state championship Saturday, defeating Wynot 49-39 in the NSAA Class D-2 title game at Pinnacle Bank Arena. The top-seeded Tigers (28-1) avenged a volleyball semifinal loss earlier this school year to sixth-seeded Wynot (18-11), using strong defense and a dominant fourth quarter to secure the program’s first state basketball crown. Junior Taylor Pinkleman tied the game early for Wynot, but Dundy County-Stratton responded late in the first quarter when Kimberly Escobar beat the buzzer with a put-back basket to give the Tigers a 12-9 lead after one period. Defense fueled Dundy County-Stratton in the second quarter. Abi Spargo’s steal led to a transition layup by her sister, Clara Spargo, pushing the lead to 17-9. The Tigers forced nine turnovers in the quarter and carried a 21-16 advantage into halftime. Wynot regrouped after the break, outscoring the Tigers 14-8 in the third quarter to take a 30-29 lead heading into the final period. But Abi Spargo delivered in the fourth. The sophomore scored nine points in the closing minutes, including an and-one basket off a turnover, finishing with 22 points and 12 rebounds. Dundy County-Stratton closed the game on a 20-9 run to seal the victory. The Spargo sisters and Escobar combined for 40 points for the Tigers, who secured their fourth overall state championship across all sports. “It’s just a super athletic, smart group,” coach Matt Schaub said. “I’m really fortunate to get the chance to coach them.” For the seniors, the title marked a dramatic turnaround. Clara Spargo noted the team won just five games during their freshman season. “We wanted to leave a mark,” she said. “Now every year they can come down to the state championship and be confident they can win.” The championship continues a golden era for Dundy County-Stratton girls athletics. The Tigers won the program’s first girls state title in any sport last spring in track and field and reached the volleyball semifinals this fall. The team is expected to be welcomed home with a community celebration, similar to the fire-department escort the school received after its track and field championship.