For the second consecutive year, the Spartans have won the coveted raffle that grants their basketball teams the chance to compete at the iconic Target Center, where teams like the Timberwolves and Lynx play. They faced the MPA Panthers again this year, seeking to replicate last year’s thrilling overtime victory.
The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stands, eager for the rival matchup. Before the girls game commenced, the crowd stood for the national anthem sung by the Spartans’ own athlete, senior Julia Taylor.
Afterward, the music quieted, and the stadium went silent; the tip-off was approaching. As the game began, the Spartans secured the tip-off, with seventh-grader Amaya Obi-Walker starting the Spartans strong by sinking a deep three-pointer. However, both teams faced turnover challenges early on. The Panthers managed to capitalize on a foul, catching up with an early score of 3-2.
The Spartans showcased their impressive passing and ball movement, although early shots struggled to find the net. Meanwhile, the Panthers’ defense aggressively and quickly closed gaps, challenging the Spartans’ offensive strategies. Yet, Obi-Walker found her rhythm, hitting another three-pointer to extend the Spartans’ lead.
Ninth-grader Clara Lovelace played a pivotal role on defense, blocking key Panther possessions and maintaining the Spartans’ edge. Despite accumulating fouls, the Spartans’ defense remained formidable, with junior Clare Ryan Bradley securing crucial steals and fast breaks.
Bradley secured a steal from the Panthers mid-game. On a fast break, she passed to Lovelace, who barely missed a free throw, but Bradley was there for the put-back, taking the Spartans to 8 while the Panthers remained at 2.
Entering the second half, the Spartans intensified their defense and capitalized on the Panthers with double teams. Mid-game adjustments paid off, with Tayor and junior Devi Nelson contributing midrange jumpers to bolster the Spartans’ lead.
Later, the Spartans called a timeout, and after number 24 on the Panthers started with a new aggressive offense, weaving through defense, hitting a layup, and bringing some hope for the Panthers.
The Spartans quickly pushed back, with senior Madelyn Moser making a three, making the score 33-15. Taylor knocked down a three-jumper shortly after.
In the final moments, both teams rotated in reserve players, ensuring everyone experienced the thrill of playing at the Target Center. Despite a renewed effort from the Panthers, the Spartans’ strong lead held firm, ending the game with a decisive 44-24 victory.
The girls will play next at 6 p.m. on Jan. 14 against the Washington Technology Magnets at the Magnets’ court.
