MONTROSE — Defending Class 4A champion Mullen girls basketball is headed back to the Great 8.
The Mustangs, seeded No. 9, went on the road and beat No. 8 Montrose in a game they controlled from start to finish in a 65-40 win.
“I thought that our defense intensity was terrific,” Mullen coach Frank Cawley said. “We were able to pressure the ball all night and led to some key turnovers and some nice transition baskets.”
Junior Megan Pohs led Mullen with 24 points.
“Megan was special tonight,” Cawley said.
Cawley also pointed to Imani Perez and Alexa Dominguez (13 points) as key contributors.
“Imani’s work on the boards was a difference maker and Alexa Dominquez just does it all well,” Cawley said. “Lex is a coaches dream. She can play every position and brings great intensity every time she is in the game.”
Mullen built at 14-6 lead after the first quarter, and was up 31-13 at halftime. It was 46-23 after three quarters.
“Montrose is a great program and (coach) Steve (Skiff) does a great job,” Cawley said. “That is a very good team we played tonight and I am really proud of my team. All 12 contributed and we are excited to move on.”
Gracie Gallegos also had ten points for Mullen.
Montrose was led by Hadley Greiner, who had 14 points. Caraline Burwell had seven, and Jacie Casebolt had six.
“I could not be more happy with the effort and heart we showed against a really good Mullen team tonight,” Montrose coach Steve Skiff said. “Mullen is a very talented team and give them credit for coming in and executing their game plan. We had a great season and am proud of everything we accomplished.”
Mullen will host No. 16 Canon City, which upset No. 1 Sand Creek in the Sweet 16.
