Providence Academy (26-4), playing with subdued precision and almost-maddening patience, wore down undermanned Minnehaha Academy in the first Class 2A quarterfinal at Williams Arena Wednesday, 60-33.

The Lions’ performance Wednesday seemed so focused that a tape of the game could be used as an instructional video. Rarely taking shots that weren’t wide open, they had a marvelous field goal percentage of 57.1. They turned the ball over just 13 times and out-rebounded the smaller Redhawks 33-18.

That approach stems from Providence coach Ray Finley, who has coached two previous teams to state championships – Blake in 1998 and Breck in 2004 – and understands the necessities of state tournament success.

“One sound bite that has stuck with me was that the object of the game is to get more better shots than the other team,” Finley said. “That means defense and rebounding and not turning the ball over.”

After taking a 15-5 lead, Providence was unfazed by Minnehaha Academy’s lone spurt, an 8-2 run that pulled the Redhawks to within four at 17-13. The Lions responded with determination that resulted in a 13-0 run and a 30-15 halftime lead. 

“These are such intelligent, disciplined students I’ve been blessed with,” Finley said. “They’re used to studying three, four hours a night. If they make a mistake, they learn from it and say ‘Well, I’d better not do that again.’”

AnnMarie Healy led the Lions with 16 points and Katie Nordick, shooting a perfect five-for-five from the field, added 12.

“We don’t have that “Alpha-guard” that so many other great teams do, but we can win if we’re consistent and don’t turn the ball over,” Finley said.

JIM PAULSEN

AnnMarie Healy, Providence

Healy was an animal in the paint for the Lions. She scored 16 points on 8-10 shooting while playing stellar interior defense against the Redhawks.

Leah Szabla, Providence

The Lions' point guard had a solid all-around game against the Redhawks. She had 6 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds and 3 steals. She played a team-high 33 minutes in the victory.

Katie Nordick, Providence

The Lions' forward was perfect for the field in the win. She went 5-5 from the field, scoring 12 points and grabbing 4 rebounds, all in just 20 minutes of playing time.

-Alec Kinsky, MN Girls Basketball Hub Staff