The Laconia Spartans upset number one ranked LaCrosse Aquinas 64-51 to secure their first state girls basketball championship in the Division 4 final at the Resch Center Saturday afternoon. After finishing runner-up in each of their two previous state appearances, in 2019 and again last year, a sharp shooting senior and outstanding guard play turned two silver balls into gold.
Reece Keel, averaging just 6 points a game during her senior season, scored Laconia’s first 11 points of the game and all 16 of her points in the first half on 6 of 8 shooting including 4 of 6 from behind the three point line. That helped stake the Spartans to a 33-23 lead at the half.
Aquinas, known for it’s pressure defense and transition game, struggled on both fronts thanks to inconsistent shooting. Macy Donarski finished with 18 points and Samantha Davis added 12, combining to go 13 of 26 from the floor but the rest of the team hit on only 7 of 31 shots (22%). Still behind by double digits in the second half, Aquinas applied pressure full court but the Laconia guards consistently handled the press resulting in fast break layups for free throws and when the Blugolds were forced to foul, Laconia cashed in. The Spartans went 16 for 29 from the line.
Aubrey Leonard and Payton Morgan picked up the second half scoring slack for Laconia, finishing with 15 and 12.
Aquinas, back to back champs in 2018 and 2019, making their 6th appearance at state in the last 7 seasons, finished 28-2 having their 27 game winning streak snapped.
Laconia finishes 27-3 for Head Coach Chris Morgan, bringing home gold for the first time.
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