Stateswomen make history at State tournament

eliza-maupin — Junior Eliza Maupin jumps as she tries to gain possession of the ball during the State championship tournament March 19-20, at Missouri State University in Springfield. Photo by Sophie Schnieders

Women’s Varsity basketball played in the State championship tournament Friday, March 19, for the first time ever.

After taking home the District championship title, the team went on to win Sectionals, Quarterfinals, and Semifinals.

After a long winning streak the team lost to Incarnate Word Academy 37-58 in the final State championship.

Despite challenging circumstances due to the pandemic, the athletes and coaches were able to continue their hard work and it paid off.

About how they’ve adapted to changes this season, Coach Josh Spuhl said, “The season has been a roller coaster with quarantines and games canceled. We have been able to rise above these difficult times and play really well… The players know that all of the coaches believe in them. That goes a long way for our confidence. The players believe in each other as well.”

Spuhl went on to say that the seniors, Gabriela Moore, Ja’mise Bailey and Dana Buford, have really stepped up this year to help support the team and lead them to victory.

About how COVID has affected their season, Bailey said, “Covid, of course, has changed everything. My senior year consisted of wearing masks everywhere including basketball games. I’ve had to quarantine once during this season, cancelling some of our games. With all of that, I’ve managed to work through everything going on and make a positive impact on the school and for the basketball team.”