Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
NORMAL – The Nashville Hornettes got both things they came to Normal to collect–a state championship and revenge.
The Hornettes avenged last year’s, last second loss to Peoria Notre Dame in the title game by pummeling the Irish 55-29 to take home the program’s second state championship.
Nashville put on an absolute defensive clinic. The Hornettes led 13-11 after one quarter, and then proceeded to hold the Irish to 11 points for next 21:05 a game time. That’s more than two and a half quarters. PND scored seven points in the final 2:55, but the game had long been determined.
Nashville held the Irish to only a field goal and two points in the second quarter, and that came in the final minute of the half. The Hornettes outscored PND 10-2 to lead 23-13 at the half.
The Hornettes extended that lead to 37-22 after three quarters, pulling away for the 26-point win.
Emma Behrmann led the way with a game high 14 points. Summer Brinkmann added 13 points, seven rebounds, and five steals while her sister Samantha chipped in 12 points and six rebounds.
Nashville finishes the season 34-3, sending lone senior Avery Reeder out a champion. The rest of the roster will return next year to defend their title.
