On Saturday, Feb. 23, the girls varsity basketball team competed at Grosse Pointe North High School against Warren Mott for the Macomb Area Conference (MAC) Silver/Bronze Championship title. After winning their past two MAC tournament games, the Lady Panthers were again able to take home the win, as well as the trophy, at the championship game with a final score of 32-29.

The girls began their first round of the tournament on Feb. 14 at home against Clintondale. With a strong offense and overall effort from the players, they were able to secure the win with a final score of 43-21.

The next week, on Feb. 19, the girls competed again at home against Clawson for the semifinals of the MAC tournament. While they struggled a bit in the first half, the Lady Panthers brought it home at the end with the final score being 40-28.

Finally, the ladies traveled to Grosse Pointe North this past Saturday for the last round of the tournament. The team slowly racked up points in the first half, with the defense always on their feet. In the third period, the girls struggled and lost the lead for a short time. However, by the team were able to bring it back. Powerhouse senior DeBraya Edwards scored 20 points and and had 10 rebounds, and sophomore Olivia Vanderham racked up six points and had five steals. Sophomore Grace Magee had eight rebounds, and senior Jo’el Stump was able to score five points as well.

“I think everyone played their part, and it was a great effort. I’m proud of everyone. All we can do is improve,” Edwards said.

Junior Michonni Ward agrees with Edwards that everyone did exceptionally well this game, with the defense playing a prominent role throughout. Ward says they earned this spot at the championship game and the hard work it took to get there definitely showed.

In the end, the girls won 32-29 and took home the championship trophy. The team ran out to the court to celebrate, and the crowd was cheering along with them.

“I couldn’t be happier as a coach. The girls did everything we asked them to, and they fought through the adversity,” coach Andrew Houghton said. “This was our goal, and we accomplished it.”

From here, the girls will take on Regina High School away this Thursday at 7pm for a crossover game, and districts will be announced and come the week after.

Gallery • 27 Photos