For the 4th year in a row, GRC Hoops is the 10th Region champion.
GRC has dominated the region all year, and this tournament was no different.
It started March 3 with a huge 77-37 win over Mason County. Eleven players got on the score sheet in this game with senior Jailenn Green leading the way scoring 15.
Green has stepped up in a big way this year for GRC, showing a strong improvement in her game.
“I have been in the gym constantly,” said Green. “I’ve been working on my shot and my free throws. Just always trying to get better.”
On Friday, GRC Hoops took on hosts Campbell County in the semifinals. The Cards held Campbell to just 11 first half points in a 68-34 victory.
Again, Green led the way with 22 points.
After two dominant wins, GRC looked to secure a third and final win in the 10th region tournament, taking on Bishop Brossart in the championship.
GRC’s defense led the way again, holding their opponent under 40 in all three games. The Cards rolled to a 71-36 win, and their 18th region title in program history.
Head Coach Robbie Graham told The Winchester Sun after the region championship how much it meant to get yet another region title.
“It’s very special,” he said. “I was asked earlier – ‘Does it ever get old?’ I answered, ‘Does happiness and joy ever get old?’ said Graham. “We work so hard, we push, and I’m tough on them. I love them like they are my own and I want what’s best for them.”
The Cardinals are happy with their win, but they know the season is not over.
The 2025 KHSAA State Tournament kicks off today at Rupp Arena.
Graham mentioned how important it is for the team to stick together through the finish line.
“When we talk about the power of our team, as one, you are not as strong as you are as a unit,” said Graham. “The kids are really playing hard and gelling together. It has been a tough road for us with all the injuries but we are figuring it out.”
Junior guard Teigh Yeast agrees that sticking together will be important to win state.
“Playing together as a team is always one of the most important aspects of a team sport,” said Yeast. “Staying together will be a key factor in being successful and reaching our goal.”
Yeast has worked hard to make herself as good a player as she can be.
“I made a commitment to working out twice a week before school with my trainer and some of my teammates,” said Yeast. “Working on my shot, footwork, and ball handling has made me a much better player.”
Sophomore Kyleigh Stakelin has also been working hard behind the scenes.
“Coming in early before school and staying after has helped me work on my skills,” said Stakelin. “It is about getting extra work in even if nobody is there to watch.”
Stakelin mentioned the importance of leadership to this team.
“Having a big senior class allows more opportunities for players to lead,” said Stakelin. “It also can help show younger players what to do and how to lead in future years.”
Graham has appreciated the fan support, and is asking for just one more week of the fans to back their team.
“Winchester and Clark County, we need you at Rupp Arena tonight at 6,” said Graham. “We need a lot of red in the stands, so please come support these girls who have had a heck of a year and worked so hard.”
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Editor’s Note: Coach Graham’s busy schedule preparing for state prevented an in-person interview, but we received permission from Matt Cizek to pull some quotes from his post-game interviews after the region championship.
