Regis Jesuit High School stole a spot in the next round of the 5A State Basketball Tournament from Fossil Ridge High School on Tuesday, February 28. The Sabercats fought up to the last seconds of the game but were unable to break the 45-45 tie with 50 seconds left on the clock and turned the ball over, resulting in a basket and the game for Regis. The night ended with No. 6 Fossil Ridge losing 45-49 against No. 11 Regis.
The Sabercats took a rough start, falling behind 18-23 at the end of the first half. However, they became to redeem themselves in the third quarter by causing turnover after turnover and took control of the game, forcing a 30-30 tie going into the final quarter of the game.
Fossil Ridge took their first 44-40 lead with 2:30 left in the fourth quarter after Ashley Steffeck nailed four free throws in a row, two off a foul and the other two off a technical foul by Regis. A Regis player stepped onto the court to play that was not on the roster, resulting in a technical foul for them. The Sabercats then were given the ball at half court but turned the ball over and allowed for a Regis opponent to hit a three pointer, closing the gap to 44-43. Regis then took a 44-45 lead after scoring a shot inside the paint.
Senior, Mckenna Schultz then tied the game back up at 45-45 after making a free throw. With 50 seconds left in the game, the Sabercats had possession of the ball but yet again turned it over. Regis capitalized on the turnover, increasing their lead and ending the game with a devastating 45-49 loss for Fossil Ridge.
Their run in playoffs ended shorter than they had hoped but they still had a great season, ending it with a (19-6) record.
Schultz walked off the court for the last time ever, “I’m so sad that my days playing basketball are over but I am so thankful for all of the great memories and friendships that came from this sport.”
