A 10-point halftime lead evaporated for Algoma as the Cougars came storming back late, hitting a pair of 3-pointers in the final two minutes to bring the Division 4 regional game within a possession.

 

Algoma led 18-8 at halftime in a first half that didn’t see either team’s offense excel. Under nine minutes into the second half, Algoma extended its lead to 15 after a quick 5-0 run.

 

A six-point swing at the three-minute mark made things interesting, but the Cougars wouldn’t get any closer.

 

The Wolves were able to break the press, and Aliza Jensen drew a foul from the Cougars’ defense with 18 seconds on the clock. She drained both free throws, and Algoma closed out the 45-39 win over No. 4 seed Coleman.

 

Freshman Reagan Schneider totaled a career-high 19 points in the win, netting five 3-pointers to help the Wolves move on. Claire Gerdmann added eight points, and Ella Severinsen chipped in six.

 

After a win by Manitowoc Lutheran, Algoma will face the top-seeded Lancers on the road, once again needing a win to stay alive. The game will tip off at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28.

 

Picture by Shelby Loucks