Although the fourth-seeded Lady Pintos had an opportunity against No. 1 Hallsville in the Class 3, District 8 semifinals, the Lady Indians held on for a 44-40 victory at South Callaway on Wednesday, Feb. 25.
California, which tied the score at 31-31 entering the fourth quarter, had numerous chances in the closing minutes, but was hindered by missed shots and turnovers down the stretch.
"We're not hanging our heads at all," said California freshman guard Elizabeth Lutz, who finished with 14 points. "We're already looking forward and being positive. We want to figure out when we can get back in the gym."
Trailing 41-36 with 2:30 left in the fourth quarter, California sophomore Cameron Meyer had consecutive baskets to get her team within one. Following a Hallsville turnover with 38 seconds left, the Lady Pintos missed two shots on their ensuing possession and were forced to foul.
Lady Indians sophomore Hannah Stephens made the first free throw and missed the second, but Hallsville got the rebound and was fouled again. Stephens hit one free throw, extending the lead to 43-40, giving California a chance. The Lady Pintos, however, turned the ball over on their next possession.
Senior Kelsey Roush finished with seven points for California, while junior Renee Roberts scored six.
"This game will eat at us for awhile," Roush said. "We just couldn't get a bucket. Their defense played well, but at the same time, we couldn't knock anything down."
Considering the injuries that plagued California this season, head coach Bobby Sangster praised his team's effort. The Lady Pintos finished 14-11 overall and 4-3 in the Tri-County Conference.
"It's been a hard year, but I'm so proud of these young ladies," Sangster said. "When people look back, they'll understand what a great accomplishment it was under these circumstances. The schedule we played, the adversity we had, the growth we had. It's just amazing."
Although they will graduate seniors Roush and Kamryn Koetting, the future looks bright for the Lady Pintos. Juniors Ashtyn Goans and Mara Caudel, who both missed the season with knee injuries, are expected to return next year.
"It was going to be a tough season, and some people expected us to lay down, but we had a good fight," Roush said. "I'm really excited to come back next year and see what they can accomplish."