Emma Ericson and Kim Henderson, the sole seniors on this Ursuline varsity team, were recognized prior to last night’s game against the Labrae Vikings. And while it cannot be for certain, it definitely appeared that the added motivation of it being the final home game for them pushed the Irish all game long.

Labrae came into the game 11-5, a tough and physical team led by two sisters, Heidi and Jenna Reppart. While the records were somewhat flip flopped in this matchup, the Irish were not intimidated. Ursuline jumped out to a very early lead, Cara McNally hit two big 3 pointers, and Jamie Nelson’s ferocious defense seemed to give the Vikings fits. Labrae was forced into multiple turnovers in the first half, whilst Ursuline would capitalize, playing unselfish and well disciplined basketball. Junior Anissa Moorman led the Irish with 13, hitting a 3 pointer as well, but it was the balance of the offense that carried them. Nearly every single player who took the court for the Irish got on the scoreboard, and they would carry a 34-15 score into the second half.

The Vikings attempted to answer defensively with more zone, but the Irish simply passed around the perimeter, and forced Labrae into more mistakes. The Irish, who have had their struggles this year holding onto leads, did not let this victory slip through their fingers. Late in the third, a dagger 3 pointer by guard Rachel Fabry pushed the lead to 30 points. The fourth saw plenty of fresh faces enter the game on both sides, and while Briley Daniels for Labrae managed to snag a couple steals and fast break layups, the lead was just too great. A sensational performance against a very tough opponent, Ursuline would go on to win 53-29, the lowest Labrae had scored all year.

Ursuline will now be on the road for the remainder of the regular season, their next game another tough test against the East Golden Bears.