Parma Western girls basketball claims first-ever regional championship
PARMA, Mich. (BVM) — Last season, the Parma Western girls basketball team had a regional finals matchup against Marshall canceled. Ready to win its first regional championship, the team instead found out they would not play again in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Like it did for many teams and athletes last spring, the moment created heartbreak and sadness.
But Wednesday night, they got revenge and won the program’s first ever regional championship just one year later. Taking on Lansing Catholic in the Division 2 regional final game at Williamston High School, the Panthers found themselves trailing entering the fourth quarter.
But perhaps the team was able to reel in the added motivation from the heartbreak of last season as they would outscore Lansing Catholic 22-14 in the final frame for a 55-52 victory.
The Panthers were led in the game by Hillary Griffin, who finished with 18 points and six rebounds. Alyna Lewis also added 16 points for Parma Western, while Lilli Luma scored 11.
Behind coach Gina Fortress, the Panthers have an impressive 17-4 in what has been a unique winter basketball season in the state of Michigan. With history now made, Parma Western will see what they can accomplish in the state quarterfinals beginning on Monday against Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard.
