SHARKS CLAIM CROWN
St. Louis clinches conference title, tops Valley Lutheran 56-34
A share is clinched. On Friday night from the Shark Tank the St. Louis High School girls basketball team clinched a share of the Tri-valley Conference White crown via an impressive 56-34 victory over visiting Saginaw Valley Lutheran.
With the win the Sharks improve to 16-3 overall and to 6-1 in conference play. Saginaw Valley Lutheran falls to 10-8 overall and to 3-5 in conference. The conference title in St. Louis’ first since the 201314 season, thus it’s kind of a big deal.
“We played well tonight, especially on the defensive end,” said long-time St. Louis coach Doug Knauf. “Offensively, we got out running and got some easy hoops. It’s a good win, but we’re still looking for that four quarters and if we put four together you better watch out.”
The victory also extended St. Louis’ winning streak to
five games and counting and avenged the Sharks’ last loss which took place at Valley Lutheran on Jan. 29.
The first half of the contest was super close, featuring three lead changes and two ties. A 3-pointer from senior
Josie Schrot gave the hosts a 25-18 lead going into the half and from there St. Louis absolutely dominated the second half, outscoring the opposition 31-16.
“It’s exciting to see it all come together for us,” said senior team leader Natalee Hoyt following the festivities. “Tonight was a big game, but we still feel like we have more to do.”
Senior sharpshooter Josie Schrot added, “We’re pretty happy because we haven’t (won the conference title) in 10 years.”
The Sharks are also having their best overall season in decades and could be a team to watch for once the playoffs open.
On Friday Natalee Hoyt led the way with 18 points, eight rebounds and six steals while Halle Hoyt had 14 points. Kerregan Wilson also had a solid showing with six points, eight rebounds and six steals.
The Sharks host Millington on Tuesday before closing the conference season out at Ithaca on Friday.