LAKELAND (SNN-TV) – A long journey for three Suncoast girls basketball programs is nearing an end, as they’re just mere steps between them and a state championship.
The first team to have a crack at it today were the Cardinal Mooney Lady Cougars taking on King’s Academy at RP Funding Center.
The Lady Cougars were led by Bri Behn’s game-high 17 points in the state semifinal win over the Lions of West Palm Beach, 52-39. The Cougars are in the state championship game for the third-straight season, facing Miami Country Day, a 58-33 winner over Providence School in the other semifinal, at 10am Saturday in Lakeland.
Olivia Davis, who tallied 14 points, 5 assists and 3 rebounds, said Behn’s ability to run the offense makes waves of difference for their team.
“The second half of the year has been phenomenal for her. She allows us to spread the floor a lot more. She [Behn] penetrates and finishes like no other. Her control on the offense today was just a complete game changer.” – Olivia Davis
Cardinal Mooney’s victory sets up a rematch of the 2021 state final won by Miami Country Day, 59-34. The Cougars lost last year to Westminster Academy, 44-41, in the title game.
Two more Suncoast schools, Booker and Charlotte High, try their hand at the Final Four tomorrow (see game information below).
