(Kelsey Lowry/CHSAANow.com)
COLORADO SPRINGS — Mesa Ridge had a lot to celebrate after its 73-49 win over Sierra in their final regular season game Thursday night.
Besides the fact that it was senior night, at halftime it was announced that the Mesa Ridge girls had won their third straight league title and that Ashley Bowen had reached a major milestone in her basketball career.
Bowen not only provided key rebounds, but also made history by scoring her 1,000th point in a Grizzlies uniform. With this being her last season with Mesa Ridge before she moves to Texas next year, this win and accomplishment was the icing on the cake.
“I was honestly very nervous,” said Bowen. “I realized I was in range about three weeks ago when I was 20 points away from it, so I set that as my goal and was really trying to reach 1,000 points.”
The Class 4A No. 5 Grizzlies started and ended the game with a high run of points and compliment the offense with a sound defensive performance.
“We didn’t let their shooters get hot and our girls were concentrated the whole game,” Mesa Ridge coach Jeff Beatty said. “We shot really well and were able to make some shots that we normally may not hit.”
Mesa Ridge (20-3 overall, 16-0 4A Colorado Springs Metro League) was led by Bowen and Chloe Welch who both scored 18 points. Serin Dunne provided a useful 17 points of support.
The Stallions had difficulty overcoming the height disadvantage against Mesa Ridge. For every missed shot, Mesa Ridge’s Bowen was there to rebound.
(Kelsey Lowry/CHSAANow.com)
Sierra (15-8, 11-5) never gave up though and fought till the last second of the game. D’nae Wilson led Sierra with an impressive 22 points and Aubrey Robinson put up 12 points.
Undefeated in league play, this game was a perfect summary of the successful season the Mesa Ridge girls basketball team has had.
“This season went really well,” coach Beatty said. “I think we’re playing our best basketball and I think we’re ready to go deep.”
With the bracket scheduled to be released on Sunday, the Grizzlies aren’t worried who they’ll be facing because they know they can go out and play great basketball against anyone.
“We can do it,” Bowen said smiling. “Our team just clicks, and I think that as long as we continue to work and have a great team relationship, we can make it to state.”