By Josh Longstreth
Ram nation was in full effect as Rockford took the court at the Breslin Center for the Division 1
Semifinal on Friday afternoon. The Rams took full advantage of that by jumping out to a 24-7
lead after one quarter. That was all the start that Rockford needed as they cruised to a 65-42 win
over Detroit Renaissance to advance to the Division 1 Championship for the first time in
program history.
Rockford shot 22-41 for the game and went on to hit 7 three-pointers as they had everything
working for them. Grace Lyons led all scorers in the game with 23 points (3 three-pointers).
Michigan Tech commit, Alyssa Wypych, added 13 points and 7 rebounds. Sophomore, Anna
Wypych, finished with 12 points and 2 steals.
Renaissance made it a game early in the third as they cut the Rams lead to just five points.
Rockford was able to calm things down by taking control of the game again and putting together
a big run of their own right after. Christian Sanders led her team with 17 points and 4 steals.
Amyah Espanol added 13 points. Makayla Johnson finished with 9 of her own. Rockford helped
themselves by dominating the board battle, 33-20.
The Rams will take on West Bloomfield on Saturday at 12:15 in the title game. The two met last
year in the Semifinal when West Bloomfield held on to defeat the Rams, 66-63. They would grab
the Division 1 Championship the next day. Getting off to another quick start would be big for
Rockford as, like themselves, faces a Lakers team with experience and a ton of talent.
But the Rams know what it’s like to be here and it’s clear, the moment won’t be too big for them
come Saturday. They’re ready and led by their talented roster, have all the confidence in the
world to take home a State Championship tomorrow. Rockford is ready to seal the deal.
