The Trojans came out in full force and defeated the Dragons 52-42.

Warren kept pace with McDowell for almost the entire game and was leading 27-20 at the half.

The Trojans would fight back in the third quarter to cut the Dragons lead to just one point with the final quarter remaining.

Unfortunately for the Dragons, the final quarter was all McDowell as the Trojans pulled away and held on for the victory.

Photo courtesy of Mark Evans Peyton Wotorson lays up a basket for Warren.

“The girls played great tonight, winning three quarters, but McDowell executed well in the fourth, getting us in foul trouble and capitalizing on it,” Warren head coach Jenny Phillips said. “We gave all we could, just came up short.”

The Trojans outscored the Dragons 17-6 in the final eight minutes.

Despite the loss, the game was arguably one of Warren’s best performances of the season as the Dragons hung with the Trojans nearly all game.

“I’m so proud of them for the effort and heart they put into this game,” Phillips said. “I’m going to miss my seniors and whether they believe it or not, they have really made an impact on this program. This group of girls are like a family. They are so close to one another, and they embraced the younger ones into this culture. Our record may not reflect it, but we have grown so much this year as individuals and a team. I couldn’t be more proud to be their coach.”

Peyton Wotorson led the scoring department with 20 points, followed by Emma Roell with 9.

With the season ending, the Dragons say goodbye to their seniors, but make way for the up-and-coming underclassmen and future leaders.

“I’m definitely excited for next year — the younger girls learned a ton this year from my seniors and I know they will take that and build upon it,” Phillips said. “I can’t wait to get started.”