UPDATE: Wadsworth High School delivered a stunning performance against Magnificat, winning 48-33 in a highly anticipated matchup on January 24, 2024. This victory further solidifies Wadsworth’s position as a top contender in Ohio girls basketball.
After falling behind early with a 5-2 score, Wadsworth unleashed a commanding 13-0 run, maintaining a lead of at least six points throughout the game. The fifth-ranked Grizzlies, now boasting a record of 19-2, showcased their depth and teamwork, with senior star Lauren Decker leading the charge with 15 points and six rebounds.
Wadsworth head coach Andrew Booth emphasized the importance of their strategy: “We have to use our quickness, our speed, and our depth. Our best bet is to try to wear teams down with constant pressure.” This formula has proven successful, as the Grizzlies have now won five consecutive games.
Annalise Lucey contributed significantly with three 3-pointers for nine points, while Natalie Maddox added eight points and five rebounds. Junior Natalie Moser and sophomore Julia Maddox also chipped in with eight points each.
On the other side, Magnificat, ranked ninth in the latest cleveland.com poll, struggled to find their rhythm. Junior Elle Lakios led the Blue Streaks with nine points, but the team couldn’t overcome Wadsworth’s defensive pressure. Senior Gemma Wichmann logged a game-high eight rebounds and five assists, but the team’s inability to score effectively led to their defeat.
“Our goal defensively is to hold teams under 40,” said Magnificat head coach Danny Gallagher. “Anytime we’ve done that, we’ve won.”
Despite the setback, Wichmann remains optimistic about Magnificat’s future, stating, “We can take lessons from this and improve going forward.” As both teams prepare for the upcoming tournament draw on January 28, Wadsworth is expected to secure a top seed, while Magnificat will aim for a favorable placement amid the RPI rankings.
With the OHSAA’s new RPI system in play, both teams have differing views on how it affects their postseason paths. Booth praised the merit-based ranking, saying, “If you win, you’re going to be fine.” Gallagher, however, expressed concerns about the potential drawbacks of the RPI system, advocating for coach-led voting to ensure fairness.
This game not only highlights the competitive spirit of high school basketball but also sets the stage for an exciting tournament season. Fans and players alike are left eagerly anticipating what comes next for these dynamic teams.
