Inola, Oklahoma — The Verdigris High School girls basketball team faced a challenging loss against Holland Hall in the first round of the state tournament on February 22, 2024. Despite a strong effort to regain their momentum, the team struggled to keep pace, ultimately falling short.
The game began slowly for Verdigris, with the players appearing uninspired and disorganized on the court. Holland Hall took advantage of this, establishing an early lead that put Verdigris on the defensive. By the time the Verdigris team found its rhythm and increased its intensity, the clock was working against them.
Holland Hall’s effective defense and strategic offensive plays kept Verdigris from finding their footing. The first half ended with a significant gap in points, leaving Verdigris with an uphill battle for the remainder of the game. As the second half progressed, the Verdigris players began to demonstrate their potential, showcasing moments of skill and teamwork. Despite this resurgence, they were unable to close the gap established earlier.
The final score reflected the struggle: Verdigris was unable to overcome the deficit, resulting in a disappointing end to their season. Head coach Jerry Oquin acknowledged the slow start as a crucial factor in the team’s defeat. “We just couldn’t find our game in the first half, and it cost us,” he stated in the post-game interview.
This match marks the end of the season for Verdigris, a team that had shown promise throughout the year. The players will now have the opportunity to regroup and reflect on their performances, with the hope of returning stronger next season. The experience gained from this game, particularly against a formidable opponent like Holland Hall, will undoubtedly contribute to their growth in the future.
As the Verdigris players look ahead, they carry the lessons learned from this challenging encounter. The determination to improve is palpable among the team, and with the support of their coaching staff and community, they aim to build on their experiences for the next season.
