Lady Crusaders Secure Defensive Battle, Advance to CYO State Semifinals
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | March 7, 2025
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The SCSP Varsity Lady Crusaders fought their way to a gritty 27-22 victory over St. Joseph’s (Harrisburg) in a low-scoring defensive battle at the CYO State Championships. With the win, they punch their ticket to the state semifinals, where they will face Mother of Mercy Academy (Pittsburgh) at 3/8/25 at 4:30 PM
Defensive Grit Leads the Way
From the opening tip, SCSP’s defense set the tone. The Lady Crusaders held St. Joseph’s to just seven first-half points, swarming the ball and controlling the glass. While offense was hard to come by, their defensive intensity proved to be the difference.
Despite shooting 8-for-40 (20%) from the field and 0-for-5 from beyond the arc, SCSP found their rhythm at the free-throw line, converting 11-of-16 (69%), which played a crucial role in closing out the game.
Key Performers
• M. Flynn (11 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals, +6): The leading scorer for SCSP, Flynn was aggressive in attacking the basket and was a difference-maker at the free-throw line (5-for-8).
• L. Maloney (5 points, 4 rebounds, +6): Provided a steady presence and knocked down key shots.
• K. Doherty (4 points, 5 rebounds, +8): A defensive force who helped control the paint.
• M. McHale (2 points, 3 rebounds, +5): Came up with a clutch free throw sequence to keep the lead intact.
• Team Defense: Held St. Joseph’s to 22 total points and forced five turnovers.
Fourth-Quarter Surge
Leading 17-12 after three quarters, SCSP withstood a late push by St. Joseph’s, who scored 10 points in the final frame—their highest quarter of the game. However, clutch free-throw shooting and timely defensive stops helped the Lady Crusaders hold on for the win.
Top Scorers Breakdown
Player | Points | FG | 3PT | FT | Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
M. Flynn | 11 | 3-9 | 0-0 | 5-8 | 4 |
L. Maloney | 5 | 2-5 | 0-0 | 1-2 | 4 |
K. Doherty | 4 | 2-6 | 0-0 | 0-0 | 5 |
M. McHale | 2 | 0-4 | 0-0 | 2-2 | 3 |
SCSP will aim to build off this hard-fought win as they look to punch their ticket to the CYO State Championship game.
