In a thrilling showdown during the KHSAA Girls’ Sweet 16 State Championship game, Sacred Heart Academy successfully defended their title, defeating George Rogers Clark 65-60. This victory marked the Valkyries’ fifth consecutive state championship, showcasing their dominance in Kentucky girls’ high school basketball.
Despite a slow start, with GRC trailing 12-3 in the first quarter, the Lady Cardinals fought back to make it a close game. With a strong defensive effort that resulted in 14 turnovers by halftime, GRC managed to take a 31-27 lead over Sacred Heart at the break. However, the Valkyries clawed back in the third quarter, ultimately taking the lead with outstanding performances from players like LSU commit ZaKiyah Johnson, who scored 21 points.
As the game came down to the wire, Sacred Heart maintained their composure and executed crucial plays, eventually securing the win with key free throws and a crucial turnover. Head coach Donna Moir, who has been a part of all nine of Sacred Heart’s state championships, praised her team’s resilience and determination in maintaining their dynasty.
From past stars like Crystal Kelly to current standout ZaKiyah Johnson, Moir has led her teams to unprecedented success over the years. With another state championship under their belt, Sacred Heart solidified themselves as one of the most dominant programs in Kentucky high school sports history. The Valkyries’ victory in the championship game was a testament to their talent and determination, solidifying their place in the annals of Kentucky basketball lore.
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