A second-quarter run gave Berkshire the momentum it would need to knock off visiting Jefferson in the Badgers’ first Division II tournament appearance on Wednesday, 36-28.
Berkshire previously competed in Division III but moved up a division this season.
“Tournament wins are never easy and Jefferson is well-coached, so we knew it was going to be a battle,” said Berkshire coach James Bosley. “Aside from that, it was nice to get one last home game for our seniors for all they have done during their four years, not to mention getting one more game in our new gymnasium is an added benefit. It’s always nice to be able to be able to practice another day and have another game to play.”
The 17th-seeded Badgers, who improved to 13-10 overall, advanced to play at No. 2 Salem on Saturday.
Berkshire’s win was even more impressive considering the Badgers weren’t at full strength.
“Dealing with some injuries, it was great to see so many girls stepping up to make plays,” Bosley said. “Eight of the nine girls that played scored, and all nine at some point helped contribute to the win. This group of girls is very special because they care about their teammates and thrive on celebrating small victories all the time. The reaction when Olivia Masink was announced as a starter filling in for Lanie (Wadsworth) was an indication that it was going to be a good night for us.”
Berkshire began to pull away from the Falcons in the second quarter when Natalie Hering hit a 3-pointer that sparked a 7-0 run.
Maddy Triskett scored 10 of her game-high 16 in the third quarter to help Berkshire maintain its lead.
Triskett also pulled down eight rebounds and added three steals.
The Badgers then protected the ball in the fourth quarter to seal their win.
“With the lead, we knew Jefferson would have to start trying to pressure us more, that’s where Caroline (Kuchling) and Nat took control for us,” Bosley said. “Those two being able to handle the pressure and find open teammates and set them up for some buckets really helped seal the win for us. Caroline’s speed and court vision to set her teammates up with open shots really helps control the tempo in games.”
Kuchling scored two points but added six assists and two steals.
Masink scored four points with six rebounds and Hering finished with five points, two assists, and two steals.
Tatum Bordeaux led Jefferson with eight points.
