Express & Star

Wolverhampton school's basketball team secures historic place in national semi-finals

St Peter’s Collegiate Academy’s U19 Girls’ Basketball Team has made history by reaching the National Schools Semi-Finals for the first time.

By contributor Karen Walker
Published

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On Tuesday, 4 March, the team delivered a dominant performance, defeating Peter Symonds College 66-15 in the Dynamik National Schools U19 Girls’ Quarter-Finals. The victory marks a significant milestone for the academy’s basketball programme and highlights its continued development and ambition on the national stage.

From the outset, St Peter’s set the tempo with a strong defensive display, forcing multiple turnovers and converting them into points. By the end of the first quarter, they had built a commanding 24-4 lead.

Leading the scoring was Ella O with 17 points, demonstrating excellent shooting and playmaking. Tanya J-O and Doretta O-D each added 12 points, contributing both offensively and defensively. Faith O (10 points) and Chenae N (8 points) maintained the team’s intensity, ensuring St Peter’s remained in control throughout the game.

St Peter’s Collegiate Academy’s U19 Girls’ Basketball Team celebrates their historic victory after securing a place in the National Schools Semi-Finals for the first time.
St Peter’s Collegiate Academy’s U19 Girls’ Basketball Team celebrates their historic victory after securing a place in the National Schools Semi-Finals for the first time.

By halftime, the team had extended their advantage to 39-8. Despite the substantial lead, they continued to apply pressure, maintaining discipline and executing their plays with precision to close out the match with a 66-15 victory.

Head Coach Douaine Anderson commended the team’s effort and professionalism, reflecting on the significance of their achievement: "This was a statement performance. The players stepped up and showed outstanding defensive intensity and offensive execution. This is a major moment for our programme, but we are fully focused on the next challenge ahead."

With their place in the National Schools Semi-Finals secured, St Peter’s will now prepare for their next fixture, which will be played at home at the James Gordon Arena. The date is yet to be confirmed, but the team will be looking to build on their momentum as they compete for a place in the National Final.

Supporters are encouraged to follow updates and show their support as the team continues its journey in the competition.