The clock read 2.1 seconds as senior Sammie Sullivan stepped to the line for two free throws. The game was tied at 45 as the Lancers’ season was on the line. After she missed the first free throw, the gym fell so silent you could hear the racing heartbeats of all the fans in the stands.
“I was definitely nervous stepping up to the free throw line,” Sullivan said, “but I knew the game depended on making at least one. I trusted my preparation and my ability, so I stayed confident and focused.”
Sullivan put up the second free-throw with what seemed like the whole school depending on her. She nailed it.
Bedford’s inbound pass was then stolen by senior Brooke Eacrett, and the clock ticked down to zero, sending the Lancers to the Division I State Championship.
“After the game, the whole team was thrilled,” Sullivan said. “It wasn’t just those free throws that got us to the championship, it was a complete team effort. Everyone made big plays and hit crucial shots throughout the game, and all of those moments added up to our success.”
Heading into the game on Saturday, Sullivan and the Lancers are looking to finish the season as champs, but accomplishing this feat will take hard work leading up to the game.
“Our plan is to stay disciplined on the court and give it everything we have,” Sullivan said. “We need to play our game and trust one another. If we stay focused and play together the way we know we can, we’ll put ourselves in a good position.”
As a four-year starter on this team, Sullivan plans to showcase her leadership skills in order to bring home the trophy.
“I want to be a leader on the court by bringing energy, positivity, and confidence to the team,” Sullivan said. “Whether that’s encouraging my teammates, or staying composed under pressure, I want to help set the tone and make sure we play as a team.”
According to Sullivan, after falling just short of a championship last year, winning this game would “mean a lot to me and the entire team.”
“That loss has stayed with us and has motivated us all season to work harder and improve,” Sullivan said. “Being able to win it together would make all the hard work and dedication worth it.”
