Piedmont delivered a commanding performance against Cardinal Newman in the NCS Open Division quarterfinals, winning decisively with a score of 66-45. The game, held in the Oakland Hills, showcased the Highlanders” ability to execute their game plan effectively over the first three quarters before unleashing a powerful fourth-quarter surge.
The Highlanders, ranked No. 3, maintained control throughout the game, but it was in the final period that they truly took charge. A relentless onslaught of fast-break points and tight defense allowed Piedmont to stretch a slim 43-41 lead into a commanding 62-41 advantage. The Cardinals managed to score only four points in the final quarter, with their first points coming in the last three minutes of the contest.
Piedmont”s head coach, Bryan Gardere, emphasized the importance of transition play for his team. “It is definitely part of who we are, who we like to be,” he noted. “We knew we were gonna take quick shots. It wasn”t a mystery thing. We”re trying to push it.” The Highlanders executed this strategy flawlessly during a critical 19-0 run that effectively sealed the game.
A key factor in Piedmont”s success was the return of point guard Jenelle Solis, who had been sidelined for most of the season due to a sprained foot. Her presence revitalized the Highlanders” offense, allowing her to distribute the ball effectively to teammates such as Andrea Martin, Taylor White, Savannah Dennig, and Alexa Ba, all of whom contributed to the scoring surge.
With this victory, Piedmont improved to a record of 21-3 and is set to face No. 2 Carondelet in the semifinals. Gardere expressed his satisfaction with the home win, stating, “I”m glad we got to do it at home. We have presidents” week (break), and we still have some people here.” Despite being guaranteed a spot in the CIF NorCal playoffs, the Highlanders are eager to make the most of Solis”s return and aim for a home regional game.
Leading the scoring for Piedmont were Madin with 18 points and Ba with 16 points, while both Solis and Dennig contributed nine points each, and White added eight points to the total.
