GALT, CA (MPG) - The Liberty Ranch girls’ basketball team is making history this season, riding a remarkable 26-game winning streak as they prepare to make their debut at the Golden One Center for the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Section playoffs. This year marks a monumental milestone for the Lady Hawks, as they head to the section finals for the first time in the school’s history.

Following a dominant performance in league play, where they claimed the top seed in the playoffs, the Lady Hawks swiftly dispatched 13th-seeded Natomas in the first round with a resounding 68-33 victory. 

With momentum on their side, they faced a historic challenge in the quarter-finals against Ripon in a game the Hawks had never managed to surpass in previous seasons. Yet, this determined group shattered that barrier, defeating Ripon 54-36 and proving they were ready for the next level.

The excitement in the air was palpable as the semifinals approached, held on Feb. 25 in front of a raucous and enthusiastic home crowd. The Lady Hawks took on West Campus in a game that would require every ounce of their skill and focus. The first half saw Liberty Ranch showcasing impressive teamwork, with crisp passes and orchestrated plays giving them an 18-6 lead at halftime. 

However, the Warriors weren’t going to back down easily. West Campus mounted a determined comeback, steadily chipping away at the Hawks’ lead and outscoring them in both the third and fourth quarters. Just when it seemed like the momentum had shifted, the Hawk defense stood firm, making crucial stops that ultimately preserved their narrow victory. 

The final score—Liberty Ranch 36, West Campus 32—sent the crowd into a frenzy and solidified the team’s place in section history.

With the triumph, the Lady Hawks now turn their sights to the section championship game, set for Feb. 27 at the iconic Golden One Center. They will face the formidable Riverbank team, which comes in as the second seed. It promises to be an exhilarating match as both teams vie for the coveted title.

Head coach Josh Williams finds himself at a familiar crossroads. Though he has reached the championship finals numerous times with the boys’ team, he has yet to secure a section title. 

Now, he stands poised to make history with the Lady Hawks and bring home that elusive championship victory.

As they prepare for the showdown against Riverbank, the energy surrounding the team is electric. 

This record setting squad has captured the hearts of their community, and supporters are rallying behind them as they aim to leave a lasting legacy. No matter the outcome on Feb. 27, the Liberty Ranch girls basketball team has already etched their names into the annals of the school’s history. 

As the Lady Hawks gear up for what promises to be a thrilling championship battle, one thing is clear: they’re not just playing for a trophy but for the pride of their school and the dreams of every aspiring athlete that follows in their footsteps.