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STATE PREVIEW: Sanger punches ticket for first time in over two decades
It has been a long time coming for the Sanger Lady Indians softball team, but the squad punched their ticket to the UIL Class 4A State Tournament this season after incredible shows on the diamond through regular season play as well as the playoffs. What can fans expect from this squad as they prep for the state semifinals?
So Far:
Posting a 38-7 overall record so far (with an undefeated 8-0 district record), the Sanger Lady Indians have had no trouble putting hard work to the test this season. With incredible non-district victories over the likes of Pottsboro (10-0), Fort Worth Trimble Tech (17-0), Alvarado (11-0), North Crowley (21-0), and more, it was clear from the start that Sanger had something special brewing this season.
As the team carried their nearly flawless play into district, the Lady Indians were sure to continue their hot streak as they defeated Wichita Falls (16-0), Wichita Falls Hirschi (17-0), Gainesville (15-0), Burkburnett (6-3), and more to seal their top-of-the-district finish and an undefeated record-- allowing only four runs against them from their district opponents.
Working their way into the playoffs, there was zero doubt at the plate or on the field from this squad. Kyley Cochran, Emily Wells, Chelsea Walton, Dalilah Millan, Lily Wilson, Abby Chapmond, Piper Lindlau, and other talented athletes continued to put in the work necessary that would guide them to strong victories in their playoff series as they sent home Springtown and Stephenville in back-to-back two game series before defeating Krum and Dumas in three games each. With only Pampa standing in their way to the state tournament, the Lady Indians recorded two strong wins and punched their ticket to the state semifinals!
What to Expect:
As the team heads into the playoffs, it is clear that they have a hunger and drive like no other. In the program's second appearance (last one being in 2001), Sanger is guided by head coach Toby Kloewer and assistant coaches Ashley Hedrick and Jeremy Harvey. The team will face off against the reigning 4A champions-- the Calallen Lady Wildcats-- who are looking to secure a repeat at state this season.
With a tough squad boasting a 32-2 overall record, Calallen is going to be difficult to beat, but Sanger shouldn't rule themselves out just yet. The team has showcased their ability to overcome challenges more than a handful of times this season and with their poise combined with grit and determination, fans can expect Sanger to put up a fight from the very beginning with the goal of securing a state finals appearance.
Be sure you catch all the action as the series begins Thursday, May 30 at 4 p.m. at Red and Charline McCombs Field in Austin, Texas!
STATE SEMIFINALS: Plano East and Mansfield Lake Ridge gear up for best-of-DFW 6A Semifinal
It's a clash of titans as two DFW powerhouses gear up for the state semifinals on Friday. Each with a remarkable journey that has led them to this pivotal moment, these formidable teams are set to face off in a showdown of high school basketball prowess. On one side, the undefeated Plano East Panthers stand as a dominant force, navigating the season with an unblemished record. On the other, Mansfield Lake Ridge, boasting an impressive 32-6 record, enters the fray with a proven track record of resilience and skill. As the state semifinals approach, high school basketball enthusiasts eagerly anticipate this matchup that promises to showcase the best of these two programs!
Plano East Panthers (38-0, 14-0)
As the only undefeated boys basketball team left in the state with a national ranking, Plano East has posted a dominant record this season. Led by head coach Matt Wester, the team has been able to prove its ability to hang among the best teams in the state and continue to show no signs of slowing down--- especially at the state tournament. Rachard Angton, Narit Chotikavanic, Isaiah Brewington, Carter Buchanan, Jon Tran, and others have helped lead the charge for this explosive team as they leveraged their talents in remarkable fashion leading to a 38 win-streak as they enter the tournament. Looking to continue reigning supreme this season, the team is ready to take down Lake Ridge on Friday.
Mansfield Lake Ridge Eagles (32-6, 11-3)
The Eagles are headed into the program's first-ever state tournament appearance under the reigns of head coach Cornelius Mitchell. On a six-game win streak, talents like Ahmare Rose, Amir McMillian, Eza Nwakamma, Matthew Alexander, and others have helped lead the program to a historic season. Through non-district play, the team honed in their skills against several difficult opponents before taking on a tough district schedule that saw them take down several prominent opponents like DeSotor, Skyline, Mansfield, and more. Working their way through their playoff schedule, the team has found themselves in their first-ever state tournament appearance ready to hush any naysayers as they take on Plano East.
What to Expect
Both teams are explosive right off the bat. With a win and go to the state finals opportunity, neither of these programs are going to put in the work necessary to seal the deal. Plano East is poised to fiercely defend their undefeated status as they enter the semifinals, relying on the cohesive teamwork and exceptional individual talents that have propelled them through the season. Mansfield Lake Ridge is set to bring their resilient spirit and strategic prowess to the court, determined to overcome any obstacles in their path and secure a coveted spot in the state finals. The class between these two powerhouse teams promises an intense battle as they vi for a chance at glory in the state championship.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. on Friday, March 8 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.