Sports

2A semistate preview: Forest Park looks to repeat in Class 2A

Historic.

 

That is one word that can be used to sum up the season the Forest Park girl's basketball team has put together. 

 

After cutting down the nets last year as Class 2A champions, the Rangers have positioned themselves in a great spot when it comes to contending for another title. 

 

At 22-3, Forest Park will entertain Greencastle (23-4) at the Shelbyville semi-state Saturday. Tip is slated for 10 a.m.  GIANT fm Sports coverage will begin with an extended pregame report at 9 a.m.

 

The Rangers advanced to the semi-state portion of the IHSAA postseason after knocking off Brownstown Central, 45-38. 

 

According to Forest Park coach Tony Hasenour, the win was a "great accomplishment" for the Rangers. 

 

"It's the first time in our program's history we've won back to back regional titles.  We had a very successful season last year and returned four starters so we felt like we could have another good year.  I attribute a lot of our success to our girls' "team first" mentality.  These girls could not care less about individual statistics...as long as the team wins, they're happy," Hasenour told The Putnam County Post 

 

Forest Park enters the semi-state having won 11 of its last 12 games and has dealt with the pressure that comes with being defending champions nicely. 

 

"I think the girls have approached this season in a really good way.  We knew we'd be getting every opponent's best shot and we haven't been perfect, but we've learned a lot as the season has progressed.  We spoke as a team at the beginning of the year about not letting the "pressure" get to us and to enjoy each other's company, each practice, and each game because it's the last dance for our senior class.  We didn't want to go through the year feeling pressure to be perfect and not enjoy the season," Hasenour admitted. 

 

Since hitting the postseason, Forest Park has been paced by Gabey Gray, who has been knocking down big shots and garnering rebounds for the Rangers. According to Hasenour, she is averaging nine points per game in the playoffs. 

 

Next up for Forest Park is a date with Greencastle, who Hasenour said is a "formidable opponent." 

 

"They have the best turn-around in the state this year in regards to wins and losses.  Gloria Brewer is a fantastic scorer but you can't just focus on her.   Emma Hunter and Evelyn Briones can fill up the scorecard as well so we'll have our hands full defensively trying to slow them down," Hasenour said

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