In a clash of undefeated teams, Chiawana held off Gonzaga Prep to capture the District 4A girls basketball championship on Friday.
The matchup featured 21-0 Gonzaga Prep traveling to 22-0 Chiawana, guaranteeing someone would suffer their first loss. Chiawana pulled out a 59-52 victory, but both teams will advance to the state tournament.
The Pups struck first. Quinn Pederson swung the ball out to Laura Thompson, who knocked down a 3-pointer to give Gonzaga Prep an early 3-0 lead.
Gonzaga Prep responded in transition. Aylah Cornwell kept her composure and finished off the glass, maintaining the Bullpups’ early momentum. Thompson then delivered a perfect lob to Charlee Peterson for a lay-in, keeping the game tight.
Cornwell continued to dominate inside, slicing through Chiawana’s defense for multiple baskets, but the hosts held firm down the stretch.
Chiawana ultimately pulled away in the second half to secure the seven-point win and the district championship.
Both Chiawana and Gonzaga Prep will move on to the state tournament, setting up potential high-stakes matchups in the postseason.