Lyle/Pacelli coach Justin Morris says his team has found a way to win games whether it was playing its best or not.

That characteristic was on display for the Athletics in the Class 1A quarterfinals Thursday at Williams Arena. The top-seeded Athletics overcame a slow start to pull away for a 59-43 victory over Heritage Christian.

The victory was the 23rd consecutive for the top-seeded Athletics (30-1). The Athletics led by five with 2:12 left in the first half before using a 7-1 run to open an 11-point lead at halftime. The Athletics opened the second half with a 14-6 run to open a 19-point lead – their biggest lead of the game – with nine minutes left. Maple Grove-based Heritage Christian didn’t get closer than 14 the rest of the way.

Kristi Fett and top-seeded Lyle/Pacelli opened the Class 1A state tournament with a methodical 59-43 victory over Heritage Christian on Thursday at Williams Arena.

Fett, a 6-5 senior who has committed to play for Minnesota State Mankato, scored 13 points in the first half to help the Athletics build a 34-23 lead.

Lyle/Pacelli (30-1) opened the second half with an 18-11 run to open a 52-34 lead with six minutes left. Heritage Christian didn’t get closer than 14 the rest of the game. Fett finished with 25 points.

Taylie Scott scored 24 points to lead Heritage Christian (19-11), which is making its first state tournament appearance.

Olivia Christianson added 14 points for Lyle/Pacelli and Annika Simonson contributed 11 points for Heritage Christian.

Check back later for more on the game.

 
Click to watch the live stream of this game at Prep Spotlight TV.