Thornton Fractional South’s historic basketball season concluded with a loss to Marist, 65-36, in the regional championship. Despite a strong record of 23-9 overall and 10-3 in conference play, the Red Wolves were unable to counter Marist’s early offensive momentum.
According to head coach Eric Bryce, the game was significant for TF South as it marked their first appearance in a regional final in nearly three decades. “It’s our first regional final in 25 to 30 years. For many of the girls, it’s their first time ever,” Bryce said.
Marist established an early lead, ending the first half with a score of 36-9. Although TF South players Gigi Dillon and Brie Hawthorne made efforts to rally their team, Marist’s defensive strategy proved too challenging.
Hawthorne commented on her team’s difficulties during the game. “I think in this game, our flaws just came out more. We didn’t communicate, and our passes weren’t good,” she said.
Despite the setback, TF South showed determination by narrowing Marist’s lead in the second half. Dillon led her team with 13 points while Hawthorne added nine. Coach Bryce expressed optimism about the future, noting that they would return with an experienced roster next season. “We’re bringing everybody back. The expectation is to get back here and win one of these,” he said.
While their season ended without a victory in the championship, TF South’s progress this year suggests promising prospects for upcoming seasons.
