West Holmes edges Carrollton in Division IV district final

Following Carrollton’s thrilling postseason run last year that ended in the regional finals — after capturing a second district title the previous season — expectations were high for the Lady Warriors.

With the entire lineup returning, a trip back to regionals appeared possible.

Instead, Carrollton fell just short, losing 49-45 to West Holmes in the Division IV East 2 District championship game.

Despite the loss, the season stood out as one of the program’s most impressive in recent years. The Lady Warriors battled multiple injuries but still challenged West Branch in the Eastern Buckeye Conference race and earned a No. 1 seed in the postseason.

Even while shorthanded, Carrollton was within a few possessions of another regional berth.

“I am beyond proud of this team and the year that we had,” coach Mikayla Poole said. “The girls had to overcome injuries that were tough for the girls and coaches. They turned these moments into playing for teammates and for one and other. Which is what we asked for out of them.”

Carrollton took a 14-10 lead after the first quarter. West Holmes responded in the second, outscoring the Warriors 14-7 to take a halftime lead.

The teams traded momentum throughout the second half, but fourth-seeded West Holmes held on to secure the win and a spot in the regional semifinals.

Senior Kylie Ujcich closed her high school career with a double-double, scoring 23 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Emma Shafer added 13 points, seven rebounds and a game-high four steals for Carrollton, which finished 16-9.

The game marked the end of an era for Carrollton’s senior class. Haley Leslie, Braelynn Roudebush, Kamryn Shaw, Ivy Bishop, Shafer and Ujcich helped anchor one of the most successful stretches in program history.

“We are beyond proud and thankful for the seniors and what they have given to our program,” Poole said.

Their contributions, both on and off the court, helped define the past several seasons for the Lady Warriors.