Despite a strong second half by Freedom’s girls’ basketball team, the Patriots were unable to overcome an 18-point deficit in the first half and were knocked out of the PIAA State Class 6A tournament by Garnet Valley, 62-40, last Tuesday at Souderton High School

“I think we blew a great opportunity. They took the game to us. There’s no doubt about it,” said Freedom coach Dean Reiman. “We didn’t shoot a free throw in the first half. We didn’t play the way we know how to play. We were intimidated by their size.”

Garnet Valley was led in scoring by the 6-0 Emily McAteer and the 6-1 Madi McKee, who took Garnet Valley on 12-0 run in the second quarter, holding the Pates to four points.

“That’s the only thing I’m disappointed in - how we came out in that first half. They threw a lot of punches and we took them, but again, if we learn from it, then so be it,” Reiman said. “Second half, we played the way that we can play, but our thing is, it’s a lesson. How do we bounce back, and how do we have the awareness when we get here next year?”

Consecutive threes in the third quarter, one by Kailey Turpening and one by Brenna Ortwein gave the Patriots some hope, but it wasn’t until the fourth that Freedom was able to find its way offensively, scoring 17 points.

Garnet Valley was relentless and consistent, however, between McAteer, McKee and Brianne Borcky.

“Trust me, we won’t be pouting very long. We’ll be back in the gym in a few weeks. Hopefully this drives our kids to ask, how do we get past that next stage when you play the number one team in the state? What do we have to do to change that outcome,” said Reiman.

The Patriots should have their full roster back for next year.

“I’m very proud of how they represent their school, how they act, very respectful to opponents and referees, and they play the game the right way,” Reiman said. “I couldn’t be more proud of them there.”