Class 6A
Region 2
Bloomingdale 73, Horizon 51
The Bulls, fueled by last year’s state championship heartbreak, took another step toward redemption with a commanding 73-51 win over Horizon in Friday’s region final. Bloomingdale used a decisive second-quarter surge to build a 40-30 halftime advantage and never looked back, advancing to the state semifinals for the second consecutive season. Izellah Kendrick led a balanced Bulls attack with 17 points and 14 rebounds.
Other contributors included Jatia Markes (13 points) and Jennie Gutman (nine rebounds). The Bulls established control early by outscoring the Hawks 17-13 in the opening quarter.
Region 3
Steinbrenner 71, Sickles 61
Naomi Parker celebrated turning 18 with a game-high 28 points, leading the Warriors to a victory over rival Sickles in the region final. The win propels Steinbrenner to its first state semifinal appearance in program history and provides revenge against the Gryphons. Steinbrenner earned its third victory over Sickles when it mattered most.
Class 5A
Region 3
Clearwater 48, Port Charlotte 36
Clearwater’s suffocating defense continued its dominant run Friday night, stifling Port Charlotte in the regional final to earn the Tornadoes their third state semifinal appearance in four years. The win marked another milestone in a season of change for Clearwater, guided by first-year head coach Hannah Kotzen.
Class 1A
Region 3
Keswick Christian 49, Naples Seacrest Country Day 44
Keswick Christian added another memorable chapter Friday night, stunning previously unbeaten-at-home Seacrest Country Day in the regional playoffs. Robyn Cantwell led Keswick with 15 points, while Abby Fischer delivered in the clutch, scoring 11 of her 13 points in the second half.
Conclusion
Congratulations to the four Tampa Bay area girls basketball teams for advancing to the state semifinals after impressive victories in their regional finals. Best of luck to Bloomingdale, Steinbrenner, Clearwater, and Keswick Christian as they continue their pursuit of a state championship.
FAQs
Q: How did Bloomingdale secure their spot in the state semifinals?
A: Bloomingdale earned their spot in the state semifinals with a commanding win over Horizon, led by Izellah Kendrick’s strong performance.
Q: Who was the standout player for Keswick Christian in their victory over Seacrest Country Day?
A: Robyn Cantwell led Keswick Christian with 15 points in their memorable win against Seacrest Country Day.
