Coming back from a state championship season, the girls basketball team had high expectations. The team’s goal from the start was to make it back and win the state championship once again. Unfortunately, the girls came up just short. They finished with a 19-6 record and were knocked out in the first round of the state playoffs. It’s worth noting the team only lost four regular season games, losses occurred in the postseason.

Even though the team didn’t reach their ultimate goal, coach Steve Clark thinks of the season as a success.

“I think it was a great season,” Clark said. “I’m very proud of the girls and coaches.  Any time you can qualify for the state tournament it’s a great accomplishment.”

The team started out 1-1, but didn’t look back from there, consistently winning and capping the regular season off with a six game win streak. In that streak were two of the biggest games for Westside against Millard West and Bellevue West. These were two top ten teams, which gave Westside enough wildcard points to secure their spot at state. To top it off, the games were both decided by sophomore standout Quinn Weidemann sinking buzzer beaters.

After that excitement came district play. The Warriors had an easy win against Central, but fell to eventual state champions Lincoln East. The team captured the wildcard, and a first round game against Millard West at state. Unfortunately, they couldn’t pull off another buzzer beater victory and their season ended after that. Of course, it was a tough loss for the team to take.

“The girls were disappointed after the game which is a normal reaction,” Clark said. “They were emotional since it was their last game together and they were thankful and appreciative to the seniors for their leadership and grateful for the opportunity to play in the state tournament.”