(Elk Horn) Exira/EHK and GTRA square off tonight with a berth in the Class 1A Iowa Girls High School State Basketball Tournament at stake. The Spartans enter the regional final with an impressive 21-1 record, while the Titans are 22-2.
Spartans Head Coach Tom Petersen has guided the program to 12 regional finals in the past 13 seasons. Asked about getting his team mentally ready for the high-pressure atmosphere, Petersen said they work to recreate that intensity in practice. On Monday, the team even pumped in crowd noise to simulate the game-night environment.
Coach Petersen says their success traces back to lessons emphasized early in the season, including constant repetition of defensive fundamentals.
GTRA has an eight-player roster. Coach Petersen notes they typically rotate six and says he’s been impressed with what he’s seen from that group.
The Titans feature a balanced offensive attack. Kamryn Hough leads the way at 16.29 points per game, Caitlyn Hough adds 15.88, Addison Hansen averages 13.42, and Lauryn Hough contributes 11.22 per contest.
The Spartans come into the matchup riding a 21-game winning streak. Coach Petersen says the run has been a journey for the team.
Taryn Petersen paces the Spartans with 19.91 points per game, while Jaelyn Petersen averages 15.96. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in Carroll. The game will be broadcast on 95.7 FM, with pregame coverage beginning at 6:35 p.m.
