Ashburn, VA (February 9, 2023) - The Tuscarora Huskies had long since clinched the regular season title and the top spot in the Dulles District tournament. This last game against the home-standing Broad Run Spartans would cap off an undefeated season for the Huskies, but it could mean a lot more for the Spartans in terms of their post-season seeding. A win would mean a third seed, and a loss could mean a fourth and a tougher first round opponent.
Chas Sumser Photography was there to capture the action and emotion and posted a gallery of images from the game.
Given the stakes, it was no surprise that Broad Run came out fast. In fact they had the lead through the first half of the first quarter. And even after Tuscarora finally went ahead, 8-7, the Spartans stayed close with Claire Erny leading the way. Grace Middleton's buzzer beater from behind the arc tied the score, 15-15, and kept Broad Run from holding on to a surprising lead.
Throughout the first quarter, Broad Run had effectively beaten the Tuscarora press. But that all changed when the second period began. Suddenly, the Huskies's stifling defense broke the game wide open. Powered by inspirational inside play from Lillie Schievert, Tuscarora converted a close game to a potential rout, outscoring the Spartans 18-3 in the quarter and leading 33-18 at the halftime break.
In the third quarter, Broad Run started out a bit better with Alex Gonzalez and Erny making key contributions, but then things got worse for the home team. The Huskies press got tighter--forcing mistakes and turnovers--and they led by a full thirty points at the final break, 57-27.
With the result pretty much decided, the fourth quarter brought liberal substitution from both benches--a good idea for everyone as they prepare for the playoffs. Broad Run's Sienna Bhide had an excellent period, but her team's efforts hadn't a chance to overcome the deficit.
Final Score: Tuscarora 72 - Broad Run 39
