The Lady Dragons played against Kimball on Saturday at St. John's University.
It wasn't the best of starts for either team, both teams got the playoff jitters out early. Once the nerves were set aside both teams came alive. The Dragons were able to pull out in front but the Cubs kept themselves close. Kimball kept creating turnovers and scoring on those opportunities. But Pine City's ability to grab offensive rebounds and create second chance scoring is what helped them stay in the lead. They were also terrific from the free throw line hitting 11-12 in the 1st half. The lead changed hands and tied a couple more times before Pine City had Sophie Lahti lob a prayer towards the net that fell through which not only gave them a 38-33 lead at half but also gave them a spark.
That spark fueled a fast start to the 2nd half for Pine City. A start which helped them breakout to an 11 point lead. But just as quickly as they grabbed the lead it was torn away. Kimball created even more turnovers and scored off of them. They were also grabbing what seemed like any rebound they wanted which gave them any and all momentum there was in the building. The Dragons lead had slipped away and Kimball held a 6 point lead. But like they have all season, they continued to fight. Even though the Cubs were quite literally making any basket they shot. The Dragons efforts soon paid off as they were able to get one of the Kimball starters to foul out. This really opened up the floor and Pine City pounced on their opportunity. They came from behind and soon tied it. It didn't take long for them to retake the lead and never look back. Once they had the lead it was late in the game and Kimball had no choice but to send the Dragons to the free throw line. Pine City built on their lead from the charity stripe and put the game away. The Dragons won 67-61.
With the win Pine City moves on and plays Albany in the semi finals on Tuesday. They'll play that game at St. John's University at 6pm.
Scoring
Pine City
Karly Jusczak 28
Sophie Lahti 20
Kloey Lind 13
Summer Thieman and Ella Sell 3
Photo Credit: Four Seasons Photography