Girls Basketball Returns to State

Pewaukee Girls Basketball Returns to State

Sarah Jacobs, Writer | 3/16/2022

The Pewaukee girls basketball team returns to the state tournament after not being able to play in the 2020 season as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With a first round win against Reedsburg on Friday, the team advanced to the championship against the Green Bay Notre Dame team on Saturday. After a hard fought battle, they returned home with the silver ball as the State Champions Runners-up, making it the farthest run in program history.

This accomplishment is even more special to the players who weren't able to compete in 2020, like senior Sarah Newcomer.

“It felt surreal to be able to make it back to state after the chance to play was taken away from us two years ago,” Newcomer said. “Just having the opportunity to play on that court was the best way I could ask to end my high school basketball career.”

Going into the season, there was great anticipation for a successful season, but it's a long and difficult road to the state tournament.

“I had high hopes going into the season, but I knew it was going to take a lot of work to get to state,” Newcomer said. “I was confident in our team and our talent, but we needed to learn how to play together in order for us to make a playoff run.”

Jim Reuter, coach of the Pewaukee girls basketball team, was also optimistic about his team. “I thought that we could compete for a conference title, and make a great post-season run,” Reuter said. “While I am not ‘surprised’ that we made it back, I am very grateful and excited for our girls. And for some of our kids to get the chance to come back, I cannot be happier for them.”

Although the girls team two years ago wasn’t able to compete, their example led the way for the achievement of the team this season.

“The team that made the trip to state two years ago helped to build the foundation for success for this team,” Reuter said. “I am hopeful that this year's team will also inspire future Pirates to strive for excellence as well.”