The Lady Cavs finally reached the goal that eluded them for four seasons. On Saturday, Feb. 23, they defeated Gwynedd-Mercy College, 49-38, to win their first CSAC title in four years and clinch a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
This year for the women’s basketball team has been phenomenal and they have matched a program-best record back in their 94-95 season with 24-4, extending their winning streak to 19 with Saturday’s win, also a program record.
The Lady Cavs have honestly showed what they are made of this year, separating themselves from most of the other teams in the league. It was clear from early in the season that this team was different from in year’s past. But no one could have expected this kind of success.
The Lady Cavs’ team effort is excellent and they play with the knowledge of each other’s strong and weak points. This season they really came together and made sure their strengths overcome their weaknesses.
Now that they have finished off an undefeated season in the CSAC successfully, they turn to the next step: the NCAA Tournament.
There was emotion behind the victory. The Lady Cavs had worked incredibly hard all season toward a common goal and on Saturday, they had achieved it.
Right away, the Lady Cavs get a tough draw in 10th-ranked Catholic University. But determination goes a long way.
That’s what the Lady Cavs bring to the floor. Was their win on Saturday the prettiest?
No, but it got the job done. And since many of the players on the roster had never played on that stage before, the way they turned the game even further in their favor in the second half proves they can come together in a strong way.
The work they did defensively against the reigning CSAC champion Gwynedd-Mercy Griffins was even more admirable. They had fought hard for 40 minutes against Keystone to get the Final berth. Saturday’s game was much different, and for that reason the strong defense they showed, as they have all season, was even more of a testament to the pride they show on the court – the defense creates offense adage.
They are a special group. They take a serious game and add a fun spin. It’s what makes them an enjoyable team to watch.
Saturday, this team got the payoff they deserve. They deserve to be called champions because of the energy and passion they bring to every game. But more importantly, they deserve to be called champions because of the way they won.
They won with chemisty. They won with dedication. They won with heart. And they did it all while having fun, which is truly what matters most.
