SUTHERLIN – The Sutherlin girls are heading back to the state 4A basketball championship tournament for a 5th year in a row after blowing open a close game and routing Molalla 74-43 Friday night at Sutherlin High School.
The Bulldogs led by only nine at halftime, but outscored the Indians 22-5 in the 3rd period and that took care of any doubt.
Junior Taylor Stricklin poured in 32 points, including 22 in the second half, to lead all scorers. Senior Kayce Mock was right behind her with 25, including a pair of threes, and 10 of her points came in the first quarter. Sophomore Harlee Baker added 12 points.
Sophomore Sierra Cox had 20 for Molalla which ends the season at 18-7.
The 2-time defending state champion Bulldogs head for the state tournament with a 24-1 record and for the first time in 5 years will go into the tournament with a loss on their record. They will play 2nd ranked Banks in the first round at 8:15 Thursday evening at Forest Grove High School. Banks defeated Stayton 53-32 to advance to the final eight teams.
The Bulldogs in the last 5 seasons are now 132-3 with two state titles and a 2nd and 3rd place finish
You can follow the Lady Bulldogs in the state tournament on i101 FM with the pregame at 8:00 pm Thursday night.
Other 4A scores from Friday night:
GIRLS – La Grande 74, Douglas 35
BOYS – Philomath 73, South Umpqua 39
