DAYTON, Ohio — It’s not easy to go undefeated in OHSAA basketball, as it has only happened 45 times in the 46 years since the girls’ basketball tournament has been played, not including 2020 when the tournament was canceled due to the pandemic.
What You Need To Know
- Worthington Christian defeated Waynedale, 55-24, in the Division III semifinal
- Waynedale was the last unbeaten girls program in the state
- Worthington Chirstian will play Cincinnati Purcell Marian in the Division III final live Saturday on Spectrum News 1 at 10:45 a.m.
Waynedale found that out the hard way, entering the tournament as the last unbeaten girls program in the state. The Golden Bears ran into a Worthington Christian buzz-saw, losing 55-24, in a Division III semifinal.
The Warriors defense was dominant, holding Waynedale to 20% shooting, and the Bears were just 1-of-18 from behind the 3-point line.
On offense, Worthington Christian spread the ball around, assisting on 13 of the made 18 field goals. Juniors Megan Weakley and Meghan Mayotte each scored 14 points, while Blessing King and Jaeda Tagoe added eight each.
Worthington Christian reaches its first championship game in school history, having lost in the 2001 state semifinals. The Warriors’ boys lost in the state finals last year, seeking a second title to go with one earned in 1999.
Worthington Christian’s coach discusses Saturday’s rematch with Purcell Marian. He called them a “whole different team” from last year. @SpectrumNews1OH pic.twitter.com/o79ls9YQJC
— Casey Weldon (@TheWallyWeldon) March 10, 2022
Cincinnati Purcell Marian is standing in the way. The Cavs were 59-43 winners versus Union Local in the first semifinal Thursday afternoon.
It will be a rematch of the 2021 regional final between the schools, which the Cavaliers won, 39-36.
The Division III championship game may be viewed live Saturday on Spectrum News 1 at 10:45 a.m., preceded by OHSAA Championship Gameday at 10:30 a.m., hosted by MaryLee Melendez and Dave Cecutti.