The Atlantic Trojans girls basketball team’s season came to an end Saturday as they fell in the regional final to the Cherokee Washington Braves 54-33. Despite holding the Braves to under their season average, the Trojan offense struggled to get going. This coupled with solid individual efforts from a pair of Braves saw the Atlantic girls basketball season end.

Making their first regional final appearance since the 2003-2004 season, the Trojans looked a little tight to start the game. Despite this, Atlantic held in and the game was close in the first quarter. Lila Wiederstein, Paytn Harter and Katrina Williams all knocked down field goals as the Trojans trailed by six heading into the second quarter.

In the second, both teams struggled with turnovers. Whether it be violations or passing turnovers, neither side was at the best. However, it affected Atlantic more as the Braves started to open up a lead. Deidra Doeden earned 6 of her 18 points in the second frame. However, once again the Trojans kept it from getting out of hand. Williams was just as good as Doeden in the paint hitting three field goals and a free throw as Atlantic went to the locker room down 30-19.

Cherokee Washington took control of the game in the third quarter. Addy Wolfswinkel hit two threes and a pair of field goals in the quarter to finish with a game leading 19 points. Doeden wouldn’t finish far behind with 18. A trio of Trojans including Williams were able to knock down two field goals, but it was not enough to keep pace as the Braves defense was able to keep Atlantic at bay for the rest of the game. Despite the loss head coach Dan Vargason was proud of what his team had been able to accomplish.

One of the main stories of the game was the ability of the Cherokee Washington defense to keep the Trojans from putting together runs.

Although the offense as whole never got going, Williams had a great outing leading the team with 13 points.

Although disappointed that the Trojans will not make an appearance at the state tournament, Vargason believes the future is bright for Atlantic girls basketball.

The Trojans finished the season with a record of 18-7. One of the best marks in recent memory.