Playing in the semifinals of the state tournament for the first time, poised Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa held on for a 51-50 victory over Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s on Tuesday at Target Center.

The Jaguars, led by seniors Allisa Knight and Josie Knutson, withstood a comeback by Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s in the final three minutes to advance to the state championship game for the first time.

“We have gotten great senior leadership,” Jaguars coach Kristina Anderson said. “This team trusts each other.”

Knight scored 15 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, and Josie Knutson scored 13 — 11 in the second half — to pace the Jaguars. 

Alissa Knight scored 15 points and Josie Knutson scored 13 to help Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa outlast Sleepy Eye St. Mary's 51-50 in the first Class 1A semifinal Tuesday at Target Center.

The Jaguars (23-1) led by six points with three minutes remaining but the Knights pulled within one with 25 seconds left. Knutson made three free throws in the final 21 seconds to give the Jaguars a four-point lead.

A three-pointer by Madison Mathiowetz with one second left got the Knights within one. Mathiowetz scored 23 to lead the Knights (23-1).

The Jaguars trailed by three midway through the second half before using a 13-4 run to open a 45-39 lead.

The Jaguars, in their second state tournament appearance, advanced to Friday's championship game.

Check back later for more on the game.