by In the second semifinal, West Branch overcame a sluggish opening period with a decisive 15‑4 run in the second quarter to take control of the game. Gilmour Academy came out strong, fueled by freshman guard/forward Annie Sullivan, who scored 6 of the team’s 11 first‑quarter points. Sophomore guard Anaya Domanski also provided early energy despite her outside shot not falling until late.
West Branch responded with balance and poise. Freshman forward Madi Hoops sparked the comeback with six second‑quarter points, matching Sullivan’s early production. Senior forward Hallie Vie Burton and junior guard Audrey Eaton each knocked down a three‑pointer, extending the lead to as much as 15 and giving the Warriors the cushion they needed to close out the win.
The Lady Warriors advance to face a familiar postseason opponent in Laurel. The programs last met two years ago in the district round, but Lady Warriors head coach Walt DeShields emphasized that both sides are far different teams now. “We’ve grown, they’ve grown. Last time was so long ago. Players have left and graduated. We will be ready,” DeShields said when asked about the upcoming rematch. The Warriors now turn their focus fully to Saturday’s regional championship with a state final four berth on the line.
Tip-off: Saturday, 1:00 PM at Canton McKinley High School
