The IHSAA Girls’ Basketball State Finals was one of the most anticipated games ever for LN. It is the first time in LN history that the girls’ basketball team made it to state finals. The last time they had come close was 2015, when they lost in semi-state to Columbus North. Even though they lost to HSE at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, they put up a good fight and took control of the first half of the game with a lead of 22-20. The second half was hard for the team they lost 55-44 with HSE taking their State title for the first time.

“It was disappointing however I was still proud of my teammates and myself for going that far,” junior Kristian Young said.

Although the Lady Wildcats lost the game, they were able to see one of their teammates win a different award. Howe was awarded the Patricia L. Roy Mental Attitude Award. The award is based on scholarship, mental attitude, leadership, and athletic ability.

“It was amazing to have won the award because its confirmation that everything I do doesn’t go unnoticed. It was difficult to regroup myself after the game for receiving the award, but it replaced the feeling of loss with pride,” Howe said.

Even though they lost a star player, the team worked hard. They did not give up. They decided to not rely on one player and instead, rely on each other and their coaches. The Lady Wildcats surpassed expectations and made their state dreams a reality.

“I thought it [the season] was really good especially since we lost our Indiana all-star at the beginning of the year so coming together after that, it just felt really good to prove what we could do when everyone was doubting us,” Howe said.

The team has strengthened their communication and friendship through their work on and off the court.They leave the drama from their day out of practice. Junior Lauren Gunn believes that this has helped them in their success this season.

“I just think that this season we had to focus on us and we had to come together as a team and we’re just a lot closer this year. We are more connected so obviously a team that’s more connected with each other it’s easy to communicate and know whats going on,” junior Lauren Gunn said.

This loss has motivated the Lady Wildcats to come back stronger next year. Even though the season just ended, the players are ready to get back in the gym and work towards their goal of becoming state champions.

“Losing makes me want to get back even more so we can come out the victors. There’s still one thing I haven’t accomplished and that’s winning the State title,” Young said.

Despite the outcome of the game, the team is proud of their season and the bonds they have formed.

“I think our chemistry bonded us on the court and allowed us to embrace and reach our full potential. I couldn’t be more proud of us,” Howe said.