Shady Side Academy reaches state title game for first time

Shady Side Academy's girls' basketball team has reached the state championship game for the first time in school history. They achieved this milestone by defeating Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (OLSH) 43-29 on Friday night in Fox Chapel. Junior guard Karis Thomas led her team with 21 points. She expressed how much the team means to her, saying, "This is like a second family to me." The Bulldogs have rallied since their only loss of the season, which was against Greensburg Central Catholic in the WPIAL final. Shady Side Academy, with a record of 28-1, had to adjust after losing 6-foot-2 forward Cassie Sauer to a season-ending injury. Thomas noted that all players stepped up to help fill the gap left by Sauer, particularly in rebounding and communication. The first quarter was challenging for Shady Side Academy as they struggled to shoot, ending the period down 10-5. OLSH's Leah Parker scored eight of her team-high 12 points during this time. The Bulldogs switched their defense strategy in the second quarter and took the lead for good. Shady Side Academy surged ahead with a 10-0 run in the second quarter. They ended the half leading 19-12. OLSH faced setbacks with Parker getting into foul trouble, which hindered their offensive flow. In the second half, Shady Side Academy's strong defense shined, allowing only six points to OLSH in the fourth quarter. Coach Jonna Burke spoke about her joy in reaching the championship after many years of coaching. The Bulldogs will face Loyalsock Township in the title game.