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3A Girls - Fourth Place Game
- Written by Andrew Millbrooke
- Published on March 6, 2010
- Hits: 609
Willamina 51, Coquille 48
(Salem) - The Willamina Bulldogs (25-5) scored the first four points of the fourth quarter, then held off a spirited charge by the Coquille Red Devils (26-3) by hitting three of four free throws in the final 40 seconds to claim the 4th place trophy in the 9:00 a.m. game at the Sparks Athletic Center on Willamette University's campus, winning 51-48. "This group played above it's potential," 4th-year Willamina coach Tom Anderson said. "It's a compliment to their work ethic, their competitive desire and their heart. A lot of people talk about talent, but they underestimate heart."
5'7 junior Gecy Bowman sank two free throws with 19.4 seconds left and Willamina played great team defense on the final possession as Coquille was forced to take a deep, off balance three-pointer before the buzzer. "That's our game," said Gecy Bowman of the Bulldogs defense. "We concentrate on defense." Bowman deflected the praise to her teammates when talking about the two big free throws she made. "We all had to step up and make them," Bowman said. "Just like in practice."
5'6 senior Caralyn Chewning led the Bulldogs with 16 points and 8 rebounds, making three three-pointers. Gecy Bowman had 14 points, hitting three treys as well. 5'8 freshman post Brook Wilson added 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 steals. "Caralyn has been our most consistent player," Anderson said. "A different girl stepped up each game to help with the scoring load. Today, it was Gecy. She doesn't yet know how good she could be. I'm proud of the whole group."
5'6 senior Megan Meador led the Red Devils with 16 points, hitting 4 of 8 three point attempts. 5'6 freshman Taylor GeDeros added 14 points, 5 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 assists. 5'7 sophomore Bailey Richardson scored 10 points, adding 5 steals and 4 assists. The Red Devils return its entire roster other than Meador, so they have a great chance to be back next season and improve upon its 6th place finish.
Qwest Players of the Game: Gecy Bowman, Willamina. Megan Meador, Coquille.
