Joliet Catholic Girls Dominate Regional Final; Dulinsky Hits 1,000 Points

The Joliet Catholic girls’ basketball team triumphed over Beecher with a commanding score of 72-26 during the Class 2A Bishop McNamara Regional on March 4, 2024. This victory not only propelled the Angels (14-15) to the regional finals but also marked a significant milestone for player Abby Dulinsky, who surpassed 1,000 points for her varsity career.

Dulinsky led the charge with an impressive 29 points in the match. “It was very relieving that I could finally have 1,000 points,” she expressed. “I was really excited that I could celebrate with my teammates that are here this year.” The team’s early lead allowed them to set the tone for the game, ensuring that their victory was never in doubt.

Alongside Dulinsky’s standout performance, other key players contributed significantly. Makenzie Keltz added 12 points, while both Emma Napier and Emma Birsa contributed 10 and 8 points, respectively. This balanced offensive effort was complemented by solid defensive play, a focus emphasized by JCA Coach Matthew Adler. “It was a very consistent game right from the jump,” Adler noted, acknowledging Beecher’s strong record and commending his team’s defensive efforts.

Upcoming Championship Match

Joliet Catholic will face host Bishop Mac in the championship game scheduled for March 7, 2024, at 19:00. The anticipation is high as both teams prepare for this crucial matchup.

In other regional contests on the same day, Bishop Mac defeated Reed-Custer 60-36. The sixth-seeded Comets (14-15) were eliminated by the third-seeded Bishop Mac, despite a commendable performance from Reed-Custer’s Alyssa Wollenzien, who recorded 24 points and 11 rebounds.

The Providence Regional saw the top-seeded hosts dismiss Bremen with a score of 70-14, setting the stage for a championship clash against eighth-seeded Oak Forest on March 7 at 18:00. Meanwhile, in the Class 1A Amboy Regional, the fifth-seeded Trojans upset the host Clippers with a close score of 55-52, earning their spot in the regional championship against seventh-seeded Marquette Academy.

In the Class 4A Shepard Regional, Lincoln-Way West advanced with a decisive win over Oak Lawn, finishing at 56-33. They will face off against fourth-seeded Homewood-Flossmoor on March 7 at 18:30. The Rock Island Steelmen ended their season with a loss to Joliet Central, scoring 64-31.

As the regional playoffs continue, the excitement builds for the upcoming championship games, showcasing the talent and determination of these young athletes.