Hartselle girls upended by Hazel Green once again
There would be no slaying of Goliath on Tuesday.
Hartselle girls pushed seven-time defending Class 6A state champion Hazel Green to the brink but ultimately fell 25-15 in the Northwest Regional basketball final.
It’s the sixth time in the last nine seasons that Hartselle’s season has ended at the hands of Trojans.
“Last year we sat here after losing the same game to the same team. Our goal was to get back here and we did, so it’s a tough loss to swallow,” said Hartselle head coach Amber Deline.
Hartselle came out with an unconventional game plan, but it nearly worked. The Tigers slowed the game and worked the ball around. Hazel Green led just 7-6 at halftime and 15-13 with under two minutes remaining before Hartselle had to start fouling.
Hartselle’s Mary Frances Itsede tries to corral a loose ball during the game vs. Hazel Green on Tuesday. Photo by Caleb Suggs.
“When you slow it down and lessen the possessions, it gives you a better chance,” Deline said. “I thought it worked to a T. We just had a few shots that didn’t fall our way. If they had, maybe we’re having a different conversation.
Hartselle’s Mary Francis Itsede tries to corral a loose ball in the game against Hazel Green on Tuesday. Photo by Caleb Suggs.
“Until they put the shot clock in, you can use that to your advantage.” Deline said.
Anna Hampton Burroughs led Hartselle with five points, while Mary Frances Itsede grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds.
Hartselle will graduate four seniors (Itsede, Burroughs, Ella Springer and Halle Ransom) from this year’s team. The senior class finishes its career with four area championships, three regional tournament appearances and two Elite Eight finishes.
“I’m disappointed they won’t get to experience going to Birmingham (for the final Four), because if anybody deserves it, it was this group of girls,” Deline said.
The seniors had equally great things to say of their coach.
“Coach Deline doesn’t get the credit she deserves because she’s done a great job of raising the standards of this program,” Itsede said. “I’m sad my career is over, but I’m excited because I know Hartselle will be very successful in the future.”
