Tigers Pick Up Key Win Over Golden Tornado
By: Jared Barton
The North Allegheny girls’ basketball team hosted Butler for Senior Night at UPMC Court on Thursday. After a close first quarter, the NA offense pulled away and secured a critical 49-30 win with postseason implications.
Both teams came out scoring in the first stanza, with seniors Vange Balouris and Maddie Williams each dropping three pointers early. Butler was paced by Eva Stutz, who had two treys and another basket in the quarter. Both teams were tied at 16 at the end of one.
The offense was limited on both sides in the second period, but NA took advantage, outscoring Butler 7-0 in the frame. The Tigers had a 23-16 advantage at the half, with Williams connecting on another three-pointer and Balouris and fellow senior Cate Pingpank adding a shot each.
NA dictated terms in the third quarter, outscoring Butler 12-5. Balouris added another triple along with a two-point shot and four foul shots. Pingpank sank a three-ball as well. In the fourth quarter, Williams and Balouris each had another three, while senior Rae Shanahan scored four points.
Balouris took home Wright Automotive Player of the Game laurels with her 23-point display.
NA improves to 10-10 on the season and has clinched a playoff spot with a third-place finish in the section. The Tigers take on Mt. Lebanon Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in non-conference action from the South Hills.
GIRLS BASKETBALL SUMMARY VS. BUTLER, 2-5-26
| SCORE BY QUARTERS | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | FINAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butler | 16 | 0 | 5 | 9 | 30 |
| North Allegheny | 16 | 7 | 12 | 14 | 49 |
