Senior Night for the California girls basketball team didn't go as planned, but nevertheless, it was still a special occasion.
California's final home game, which was scheduled for Monday, Feb. 16, was postponed until Tuesday, Feb. 17, because of bad weather. The Lady Pintos also were playing without senior guard Kamryn Koetting, who suffered a serious knee injury earlier this month.
Although California kept it close against Tri-County Conference foe Osage, the visitors held on for a 58-53 win, spoiling Senior Night for the Lady Pintos.
"It's bittersweet," said California senior forward Kelsey Roush. "I'm sad for my basketball career to end, but excited for what the future holds. I'm trying to enjoy every minute because it's my senior year. I love playing with these girls and love the game of basketball."
Although Koetting was unable to compete, she was honored before the game, along with Roush and senior Ane Mikkelsen. Koetting, who underwent knee surgery earlier that day, sat on the bench with her teammates.
"It's sad because I can't play with my best friend on Senior Night," Roush said. "We started our high school careers together and always said we were going to end it together. Even though she's not out there playing, she's cheering from the bench and that means just as much."
Despite California's attempt to rally in the fourth quarter, Osage made 18 of its 24 free-throw attempts to seal the win. Roush finished with 16 points and freshman guard Elizabeth Lutz scored 14.
The Lady Pintos, however, bounced back to defeat conference rival Blair Oaks, 47-36, on the road Thursday night. Lutz had 12 points, sophomore Kayla Allison added 11 and Roush scored 10.
California finished the regular season 13-10 overall and 4-3 in the conference.
"We've had ups-and-downs, but with every down, we always work our way back up," Roush said. "This may not be an ideal season in some regards, but we've all stuck together and tried to remain positive."