GREELEY, COLO – Coming off a big Final 4 win against Cheraw Thursday, the McClave Cardinals fought with hopes to attain back-to-back CHSAA Class 1A girls state championship wins.

The team ultimately secured the title after beating the Flagler Panthers 43-40 at the Bank of Colorado Arena Saturday evening to extend their winning streak.

McClave, led by coach Brianne Howe, took initial possession and controlled the ball for the majority of the first quarter. The teams remained closely matched throughout the beginning of the game, ultimately ending the first quarter in an 8–8 tie.

Things picked up for both teams in the second quarter, with multiple 3-pointers from each side, including a big 3-pointer from Flagler senior Mia Witt that tied the game at 13 points.

“We set this goal since day one and knew we would have a great opportunity to be back-to-back champions and we managed to find a way to do that,” Howe said. “I told them (to be) fearless out there… you have to play to win.”

Later in the quarter, McClave strengthened its lead and began to pull away. An energizing buzzer-beating three-pointer from senior captain Abrielle Gomez ended the half, sending McClave into halftime with a 28–18 lead alongside her best friends.

“Being able to do it once is super special but being able to do it with my best friends, for a second year in the row, is so special,” Gomez said. “Senior year, a way to go out.”

(Jessica Maestas)

Gomez, who is double committed to Lamar Community College for both volleyball and basketball, led her team with a total of 15 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Flagler’s Rylie Berry ultimately led the game, scoring 19 points followed by her twin sister Sydnie who scored seven.

Despite their best efforts and numerous close statistics, things remained consistent for the Cardinals during the second half, advancing their lead to 34-28 going into the final quarter.

However, things changed late in the game with a close comeback from the Panthers, bringing the score to 42-39 with a minute left in the half and leaving fans in the arena on their feet.

“Our community is so special. We have a far drive, it’s almost four hours and we bleed red. You can see our stands are full of red, half the stands are red and we had a far drive,” Gomez said.  “Just knowing they had backs and that they are going to war with us, it’s just super special to have such a supportive community wanting us to succeed. I am super grateful to be able to be a part of it.”

Despite the close competition the Cardinal remained in the lead and will bring the state championship title back to Bent County.