On Wednesday, Feb.11, the girls basketball team, who is the North Suburban Conference (NSC) Prarie Division Champion, defeated the Lake Division Champion, Stevenson, for the NSC Championship with a final score of 68-54.

The Sequoits were ready as soon as the ball was thrown in the air for the tip-off. The atmosphere and excitement seemed to spark the Sequoits’ shooting, leading them to victory. In the first quarter, the Patriots and visiting Sequoits went back in forth. However, the Sequoits were leading with a score of 23-16 going into the second quarter.

Before halftime, the Sequoits made a huge run with sharp shooting and key passes to jump the lead to 40-27. The Sequoits were not done yet.

At halftime, the NSC recognized many players. Shannon Zogran received the NSC Sportsmanship award. Also, Antioch’s own Amy and Ashley Reiser and Carly McCameron all received All-Conference, while junior Kelly Johnson received All-Conference Honorable Mention.

After a long halftime, the fans were hungry for more. With a packed student section and the parents’ support, the game started to go Antioch’s way. Some starters were in foul trouble, so sophomore Erika Gallimore and junior Madalyn Murillo both came into the game bringing a lot of energy. The lead continued to stretch as the Sequoits outscored the Patriots in the third quarter making the score 54-36.

Headed into the fourth, the Sequoits could taste it. The Patriots made a solid run cutting the lead down, but the Sequoits bounced back right away driving and hitting mid-range jump shots to secure the victory.

In the win, Ashley Reiser led the way with 26 points and McCameron had 17. Zogran also made three 3-pointers and a lay-up to contribute 11 of her own.

Head coach Tim Borries said, “It feels great, but I’m more happy for the girls. They played in the moment. Whenever I see a player run across the floor pointing to another and smiling, you know it’s a good night.”

The Sequoits open up regional play at Wauconda on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 6:00 PM. Come support the Sequoits as they try to make a historical run in the state tournament.