O’NEILL — Trailing entering the fourth quarter, Elgin Public-Pope John rallied to defeat North Central 44 to 42 in the quarter-final round of the girls Niobrara Valley Conference Tournament.
In the final eight minutes of the game, the Wolfpack outscored the Lady Knights 12 to nine to survive and advance in the tournament.
The game was won in the final moments. Coach Randy Eisenhauer said North Central was unable to get the ball in-bounds and was whistled for a five-second call. With the ball under EPPJ’s basket, Jenna Parks got the ball to Ally Wemhoff at the top of the key. She was fouled on her shot attempt with 1.1 seconds left in the game. The freshman then made two free throws for the margin of victory.
The Wolfpack’s defense may have been the difference in the game. In the second half the Wolfpack outscored North Central 23 to 12.
Senior Jenna Parks led EPPJ with 15 points, Baylee Wemhoff added 11.
By virtue of the victory, the Wolfpack will now play St. Mary’s in the semi-final round of the tournament Friday night (February 5) at St. Boniface gymnasium. Tip-off will be at 6:15 p.m.
Wolfpack 44, North Central 42
Wolfpack……………………………5 16 11 12 — 44
North Central………………………13 17 3 9 — 42
Wolfpack — Liz Selting 5, Jenna Parks 15, Calli Krebs 2, Jordan Mescher 2, Baylee Wemhoff 11, Allyson Wemhoff 8, Lydia Behnk 2.
