The Pella Christian girls basketball team punched their ticket to the State Tournament on Monday night by beating Van Buren 63-32. The Lady Eagles trailed 5-3 midway through the first quarter before they grabbed the lead and took a six point advantage into the second quarter in a game heard live on 92.1 FM KRLS and kniakrls.com.

Leading 15-9, the Lady Eagles came out in the second quarter and wore out Van Buren with their defense; as the press was especially effective. Pella Christian would give up just six points in the second period, taking a 27-15 lead into the locker room.

The second half was more of the same, with Pella Christian dominating nearly every aspect of the game. The Lady Eagles didn’t allow more than nine points in any quarter. The outside shooting inflated Pella Christian’s lead rapidly, and Van Buren was too tired to get back in the game.

Jasmin Schelhaas had a game-high 23 points, connecting on five 3-pointers. Christina Nolte had 10 points while Shelby Weaver added 8. Paige Engbers and Cali Vink had 6 points each. Unofficially, Pella Christian forced Van Buren to turn the ball over 24 times.

With the win, Pella Christian will make their appearance in the State Tournament. The Lady Eagles will tip-off against Estherville-Lincoln Central at 11:45 AM on Tuesday March 1st. The Midgets advanced to the State Tournament with an overtime win over Kuemper Catholic of Carroll, 52-49.

You can hear this game live on 92.1 FM KRLS and kniakrls.com.