Hersey presses the issue, defeats Grant

Hersey's full-court press was a key component of its 62-46 victory over Grant in the Highland Park Class 4A regional on Wednesday night.

The Huskies were able to set the tone and jump out to a 20-10 lead by the end of the first quarter by converting turnovers forced by their zone press into layups and 3-point field goals.

"Our press always gives us a lot of momentum," sophomore guard Megan Rogowski said. "That is usually our best defense, so that always helps us out."

Rogowski scored a game-high 22 points and sank four 3-pointers after she had advanced in the 3-point shooting contest before the game started.

"I think the 3-point contest actually warmed me up a lot," Rogowski said. "They were giving us a lot of shots and we were making good passes, which really helps."

The Bulldogs were able to put together a few runs sparked by Heather Chapman (14 points), Rose Mustari (14) and Amber Potts (11) to cut their deficit under 10. Whenever it got close, though, Rogowski was able to answer with a big basket of her own.

"She's so clutch and we rely on her," Hersey coach Mary Fendley said. "When another team gets a handful of points in a row, Megan seems to be the one to step up and make something happen for us on offense, and she did tonight."

Hersey still had a pretty balanced scoring attack against Grant, with Kelly Rogowski scoring 11 points and Julia Fredian scoring 10.

Grant coach John Eiduke said the early turnovers against Hersey's press and the Huskies ability to get offensive rebounds were major factors in the game's result.

"When they're getting two, sometimes three shots in one possession, you can't do that with a team like that," Eiduke said. "They've got a good basketball team and they deserve the credit."