The Providence Academy Lions are set to make history in Minnesota high school basketball. With their recent 88-43 victory over Minnewaska Area in the Class AA semifinals, the top-seeded Lions extended their winning streak to 43 games since last season. This remarkable performance places them one win away from clinching a fourth consecutive state championship, an elite feat shared by only a few schools in the league's history. The Lions' relentless speed, athleticism, and balanced scoring dismantled Minnewaska Area, leaving little room for a comeback. Key players like Maddyn Greenway, Beckett Greenway, McKenna Schaefer, and Hope Counts delivered standout performances, propelling the team closer to this historic milestone.

In a thrilling display of dominance, the Lions showcased their exceptional talent during the match held on March 14 at Williams Area. Their strategy revolved around maintaining high-paced play on both offense and defense, which overwhelmed Minnewaska Area throughout the game. The Lions' ability to score effectively from both inside and outside created significant challenges for their opponents, who struggled to keep up with the relentless pressure. In the first half alone, eighth-grader Beckett Greenway emerged as a rising star, contributing significantly to her team’s lead with 14 points.

Maddyn Greenway, the junior guard, further solidified her reputation as a formidable force, scoring 26 points overall. Meanwhile, senior guard McKenna Schaefer added 17 points along with eight rebounds, showcasing her versatility on the court. Senior forward Hope Counts dominated the paint, recording a double-double with 15 points and 15 rebounds. These contributions were instrumental in building a commanding lead that reached 21 points by halftime.

As the second half commenced, the Lions maintained their momentum with an impressive 8-0 run, widening the gap even further. Minnewaska Area faced additional hurdles due to turnovers, which Providence Academy capitalized on, converting them into 35 crucial points. Despite senior post Sydney Dhal putting up a valiant effort with 21 points for Minnewaska Area, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Lions’ superior execution and teamwork.

This outstanding performance not only highlights the Lions’ prowess but also underscores their potential to etch their names among the greats in Minnesota high school basketball history. As they prepare for the final showdown, anticipation grows regarding whether they will achieve this monumental accomplishment and cement their legacy as one of the most successful teams in the league.