Division I Girls Regional Semifinals: Jackson Beats Medina 44-38 In Defensive Battle

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Wadsworth, OH: With a spot in the regional finals on the line, Massillon Jackson (20-5) took down the Medina Battling Bees (19-6) 44-38 on Wednesday evening. Ashley Helle had 18 points and Maddie Lepley had 17 to lead the Polar Bears. Olivia Klanac dominated the offensive end for the Bees, finishing with 23 points.

If you have seen the Medina Bees play, their offense runs through Olivia Klanac and Wednesday night was no different. While Klanac had all eight Medina points to open the game, the Polar Bears used a more balanced attack and held a 12-8 lead at the end of one. 

The second quarter was more of the same, as Jackson had four players score and Klanac continued to dominate for Medina. When the halftime horn sounded, Jackson extended their lead just a bit to 21-15. 

Finally, in the third quarter, the Bees got more contributions offensively and it immediately paid dividends. Points from Vivian Kelps, Molly Gilbert, and Addy Shook narrowed the Jackson lead to just two points heading into the final quarter. 

With no shot clock, the Polar Bears were able to run some time off the clock offensively in the fourth. When they reached the bonus following the fifth Medina foul, they were able to hit their free throws. In the quarter, Helle hit seven free throws and Lepley added four of her own. 

While the Bees continued to battle, time was not on their side as the Polar Bears held on for a 44-38 victory, advancing to Saturday’s regional championship game.

Up Next

The victory puts the Lady Polar Bears just three wins away from their first ever State Championship. What lies ahead is one of the toughest matchups Jackson has seen all season, the Magnificat Blue Streaks (19-5). Tip-off is scheduled for 1 pm at Wadsworth High School on Saturday afternoon.

Top Performers

Jackson Polar Bears

Ashley Helle: 18 points

Maddie Lepley: 17 points

Medina Bees

Olivia Klanac: 23 points

Addy Shook: 6 points