The Hoopstars head to Columbus for the state tournament. They must win the tourney in order to advance to Nationals. The girls look forward to a rematch with their rival, Cincinnati West, who defeated them in the previous year's title game. After two easy victories, the Hoopstars struggle in the early stages of their semi-final game. However, they end up winning by a comfortable margin. They take on Cincinnati West in an intense championship game. Lauren's grandmother can no longer take the pressure, and elects to go outside until the game is over. Cincinnati West hits a three-pointer as time runs out to send the game to overtime. Maria feels she let the team down with a mental mistake that led to the tying basket, but comes through in the overtime. The Hoopstars pull away to win the title, and celebrate their impending trip to Nationals.

Ashley Brown

favorite_border