In a challenging first-round matchup, the Verdigris High School girls’ basketball team faced a tough loss against Holland Hall on January 10, 2024. Despite a slow start, the team showed signs of improvement but ultimately could not secure a victory, ending their championship aspirations early.
Struggles in the Early Game
The game, held in Inola, Oklahoma, began with a lack of energy from the Verdigris squad. They struggled to find their footing, trailing significantly in the first half. It wasn’t until the second half that the team began to increase their intensity and find some rhythm on the court.
Under the guidance of head coach Jerry Oquin, the players attempted to regain control, but the late surge was not enough to overcome the deficit established early in the game. The first half saw Verdigris scoring only 20 points, while Holland Hall capitalized on their opportunities, leading by a significant margin.
Late Comeback Efforts
As the final quarter approached, Verdigris displayed a renewed sense of determination. They began hitting key shots and tightening their defense, which allowed them to narrow the gap. The team’s efforts culminated in a scoring run that brought them within striking distance.
Despite their late-game energy, the clock was not in their favor. The final score reflected the slow start, as Verdigris fell 58-52 to Holland Hall. The loss marks a disappointing end to their season but highlights the potential for growth in the upcoming seasons.
Coach Oquin expressed pride in his team’s resilience, stating, “We showed a lot of heart in the second half, and I’m proud of how the girls fought back. We’ll take this experience and learn from it as we prepare for next year.”
As the season concludes for Verdigris, the focus will shift to rebuilding and improving for the future, ensuring that the lessons learned from this game will contribute to their development as a competitive team.
