An early charge to a 17-point advantage turned into a closer 4th quarter as the Pella girls basketball team knocked off Ballard 43-33 in a Class 4A Regional Semifinals game heard live on 92.1 KRLS on Saturday.

The Dutch built their lead to 21-4 at one point in the first half before the Bombers started chipping away at the home team’s advantage, fueled by 21 Pella turnovers.

Pella had several key plays late in the 4th quarter to avoid allowing Ballard from making the game even closer, and hit several free throws in the final minute to ice it.

Head Coach Blaine Forsythe was happy with the resilience his team showed through tough circumstances, especially in the 2nd half.

“Our players got off to a fast start on both ends of the court through the first court. We had a focus on the scout that was the best we have had all year. Ballard made a few adjustments late in the first half that forced our players to respond. Proud of our players’ effort tonight and how they closed it out. I thought Riley and Carleigh came up huge with hustle plays in the 4th quarter that turned the momentum back our way. We are excited for an opportunity to play in our 4th straight Class 4A Regional Final at DCG on Tuesday.”

Emma Walkup finished with 10 points and Kamryn Long scored nine in her return to the lineup after missing several games due to injury.

Pella will play in its 4th consecutive 4A regional final on the road to #2 in 4A Dallas Center-Grimes on Tuesday. Hear that game live on 92.1 KRLS.