Photos by Sarah Laird for CatchMark
Defense has been the calling card for Ludington’s girls basketball team under coach Warren Stowe’s watch.
The Orioles played their traditionally strong “D” and got just enough offense in Friday night’s Division 2 district championship game at Big Rapids High School.
Ludington defeated Reed City, 36-23, and will advance to Monday’s regional semifinal.
Ludington (18-7) will take on Clare (19-5) in Monday’s 7 p.m. regional semifinals at Petoskey. Clare (19-5) beat Shepherd, 43-31, in a district final Friday night.
The Orioles last won a district title during the 2021-22 season, when they made a run to the Division 2 state semifinals.
Reed City finishes the season with a 13-11 record.
“Very proud of our effort and energy tonight. Sometimes after an emotional game, like Wednesday, you get nervous about being able to maintain,” Ludington coach Warren Stowe said. “I thought we did and that’s a testament to our girls and our bench keeping us up all night.”
Ludington trailed Reed City, 8-7, after one quarter. The Orioles answered with a 12-2 run in the second quarter and 10-5 in the third to take control.
Ludington is traditionally balanced offensively and that was the case against Reed City. Peyton Welch led the Orioles with 10 points, followed by Elianna Jeruzal, Jenna Skiba, Madelyn Kenyon, and Jordyn Anderson scored six points apiece.
“We thought Reed City may pack it in, and they did,” Stowe said. “I was pleased with our execution on offense. We worked hard to get our shots and we had a lot of girls play within themselves.”
“Excited for the opportunity to compete,” Stowe said. “At this point, every team is going to be a great team. We will prepare as we always do and get ready to compete Monday night.”
