Young Upper St. Clair team shakes jitters, advances to Semifinals
In a game that started 40 minutes late because of the game before them going to overtime, No. 7 seed Upper St. Clair, starting four freshmen, were able to avoid opening round jitters and upset third-seeded Norwin Knights, 52-39.
Upper St. Clair set the tone early slowing the game down and frustrating the Norwin offense as they had an 8-5 lead after a quarter and 15-13 at halftime. Despite the low scoring, Katelyn Robbins had a monster half posting a double-double, 10 points and 10 rebounds. The third quarter was more of the same with the Panthers leading 29-25. In the final frame, Upper St. Clair’s offense got hot and separated themselves winning the game, 52-39
Robbins carried her big game into the second half, finishing with 30 points and 20 rebounds. She was money from the line going 11 of 12 for the game. Mia Brown added 10 points.
Olivia Gribble led Norwin with nine points.
Upper St. Clair improves to 15-7 overall and secured date in the semifinals with North Allegheny on Tuesday at a site and time to be determined in the WPIAL Semifinals.
Norwin falls to 18-6 overall. An outside chance to make the state tournament for the Knights who would get in if Upper St. Clair wins the WPIAL Title.