By Dana Ehrmann
Sports Correspondent
Despite a great showing in what was a thrilling game pushed into overtime, the girls Catholic Central basketball team ended its season last Friday with a 60-55 loss in a Division 5 regional semifinal against Living Word Lutheran.
The No. 7 seed Lady Toppers took on the number two seed Timberwolves on February 25th in Jackson, WI to see who would advance to the regional final game the next day.
Catholic Central hit the court planning patience on offense and relentlessness on defense, and they made those things happen.
Sophomore Mikelle Miles and senior Kacie Snyder were key players on both sides of the game.
“Mikelle and Kacie brought all-out hustle and energy to the defensive end. They also added baskets for us when we needed them and fought for offensive rebounds, keeping the ball alive on our end,” said coach Suzy Bittmann. “I can’t say enough about how they and everyone contributed to this entire game.”
Among the overall defensive stops were 18 total deflections and nine steals. On the offensive side, the Lady Toppers’ field goal percentage was 36, boosted by a combined five three-pointers in the second half from junior Bridget Bittmann and freshman Emma Klein.
Three-pointers rained down from both teams, however. With 45 seconds left, Catholic Central lost a 50-47 lead due to a three from Living Word Lutheran’s Keri Walker, leading to overtime.
From there, it was all small ball. After the Timberwolves jumped out to a 56-52 lead, the Lady Toppers had to foul. It looked like a move that would keep them in the game, as Living Word Lutheran had only sunk nine out of 20 from the line in regulation.
But, they hit six of eight to close it out.
Emma Klein contributed 16 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Bridget Bittmann tallied 16 points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals as well.
“We played our best basketball here at the end of the season, which is exactly what you want to do. Every player contributed and battled as hard as she could. The ball just didn’t bounce our way at times, which can make all the difference,” said Coach Bittmann.
“Despite that, our girls played their hearts out and deserved to leave that gym with a W. It just wasn’t to be. It’s hard to have the season over when we felt like we were just getting going,” she added.
To get to the regional semi-final, Catholic Central triumphed over Faith Christian in the quarterfinal game back on February 23 at home. The final score was 48-22 thanks in part to a standout performance from freshman Elizabeth Klein.
Catholic Central finishes the season 6-17, and loses three seniors.
Coach Bittmann reflected on what they have meant to the program: “Our seniors Abbey Robers, Laura Klein, and Kacie Snyder energized and led our team all season. I am so proud of their efforts and leadership in this game and in every game this season. We will miss them!”
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