Atlantic’s Defense and Kirchhoff’s Shooting Propel Trojans Past Harlan, 52-40

(Harlan) Atlantic’s solid defense and Zoey Kirchhoff’s sharpshooting led the Trojans to a 52-40 victory over Harlan in a Class 3A Region 5 semifinal on Wednesday night. Afterward Atlantic Head Coach Dan Vargason stated he was incredibly proud of this team. He said they have been battled tested, and have been able to adapt and overcome the entire season.

Kirchhoff powered Atlantic’s offense with 21 points, including three three-pointers. Paytn Harter added 17, while Lila Wiederstein chipped in six. Peyton McLaren and Katrina Williams each scored four points. Harlan’s Gracie Albertson led the Cyclones with 13 points, followed by Aubrey Schwieso with 11 and Kenzley Bruck with eight.

Harlan opened the game strong, racing out to a 7-0 lead behind Schwieso’s early three-pointer and consecutive field goals. However, the Trojans responded with a 10-2 run to close the quarter ahead 11-10. The second quarter was a back-and-forth battle featuring three ties and seven lead changes. Kirchhoff drained a three-pointer to knot the score at 17-17, then hit another to push Atlantic ahead 20-17. By halftime, the Trojans held a 22-18 advantage, despite Albertson’s strong inside presence for Harlan, scoring eight first-half points. Coach Vargason commented on Kirchhoff’s offensive performance.

Atlantic never relinquished the lead in the second half. Harter, who was limited to four points in the first half, took control inside and tallied 13 second-half points.

Kirchhoff sealed the win at the free-throw line, sinking 8-of-9 down the stretch. Wiederstein and McLaren made key defensive plays and added clutch baskets, while Williams, limited by early foul trouble, was relieved by Brynn Lamp, who provided solid minutes off the bench.

With the win, Atlantic (18-6) advances to face Cherokee-Washington (20-3) in the Class 3A Regional Final on Saturday night in Cherokee. The winner will earn a trip to the Girls State Tournament. We will have the broadcast on 95.7 F.M. The pre-game show starts at 6:35. The tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m.