Canton, OH -- This season has been a special one for the West Branch girls basketball team, and they stayed red hot with a 45–32 victory over Gilmour Academy at the historic Canton Memorial Fieldhouse. The win punched their ticket to the OHSAA Division IV Regional Final and moved them one step closer to the state tournament.
The Lancers came into the game confident, building an early 11–6 lead in the first quarter. However, West Branch showed plenty of hustle and heart, highlighted by Alli Kanagy taking a charge that fired up the crowd. After the opening quarter, the switch flipped for the Warriors on both ends of the floor. West Branch allowed just four points while scoring 15 of their own to take a 21–15 lead into halftime. It was evident freshman Madi Hoopes wanted the ball, attacking the basket and finding success.
Some teams come out of halftime slow, but the Lady Warriors started the third quarter strong, extending their lead even further. West Branch once again dominated the quarter, taking a 36–21 lead into the final frame.
The Warriors continued to play with confidence down the stretch, eventually securing a 45–32 victory over Gilmour Academy to punch their ticket to the OHSAA Division IV Regional Final for the first time since 2020.
Big performances led the way for West Branch. Freshman Madi Hoopes shined in the biggest game of the season, scoring 21 points while also playing excellent defense. She received strong support from senior Hallie Vie Burton, who delivered one of her best performances of the year, knocking down two three-pointers on her way to 10 points. Audrey Eaton also added six points to help lead the Warriors to the win.
Alli Kanagy and Tallie Muniz also made key contributions, especially on the defensive end, helping slow down Gilmour Academy's offense. Off the bench, Sammi Beatty and Sydney Lane provided valuable minutes and energy that helped West Branch secure the victory.
What's Next: With the win, West Branch improves to 23–3 on the season and advances to the OHSAA Division IV Regional Final on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. Standing in their way will be the fourth-ranked team in the state, the Laurel Gators, who enter the matchup with a 19–4 record.
