2017 Hanover Girls Sub-State Champions (courtesy of Kieran Wurtz)

After coming short last year in the first round of the Class 1A-Division I State basketball tournament the Hanover lady Wildcats were hungry to make sure it was more than a one and down performance this year. Using a strong fourth quarter Hanover secured the 49-34 win over Dighton to earn their first ever State tournament win in school history.

It was tight early on between both teams and in a game that was marred by foul trouble and turnovers for both teams Hanover held just an 11-10 lead after the first quarter and went into the half up 20-15 over Dighton. Hanover clung to a three-point lead entering the fourth quarter but behind some free throws and a 19-7 fourth quarter overall earned the 49-34 win. 

Both teams struggled with turnovers in the contest as Hanover turned the ball over 18 times, while Dighton had 23 turnovers with both teams shooting around 31% for the contest. Hanover capitalized on free throws going 15-26 from the line as Macy Doebele led the Wildcats with 18 points. Riley Doebele and Ashton Jueneman each chipped nine points apiece. 

The win moves Hanover to 22-2 on the season and moves them into the 1A-DI Semifinals on Friday, March 10th where they will play Twin Valley League foe Centralia at 3:00pm.