Glenbard West gets back on track, breezes past Addison Trail

It had been six days since Glenbard West last played a game.

But in opening the Class 4A playoffs on Tuesday, the Hilltoppers didn't show any rust.

Limiting the host Blazers to four field goals and no free-throw attempts in the opening half, Glenbard West cruised to a 60-29 victory in an Addison Trail regional semifinal.

"It's just good to get back on the court after last week," said Glenbard West coach Kristi Faulkner, whose team lost to Proviso East in the West Suburban Conference championship crossover contest on Feb. 7. "Our team brought a lot of energy. They played with heart, they played together.

"It's the fun time of year; it's fun to be part of the playoffs and to win and keep playing. We want these seniors to keep playing as long as possible."

All 12 players on the visiting roster saw action and each grabbed a rebound. Ten of the 12 entered into the scoring column, led by the 11 points apiece from guards Cameron Kruse and Katelyn Heller.

"Our whole team is super deep," Kruse said. "Everyone can do anything. And the best way to play basketball is to pass the ball and get an open look. I thought we really executed."

Glenbard West led 17-7 after the opening eight minutes and then held Addison Trail scoreless in the second quarter until less than a minute remained. A 31-10 halftime advantage swelled to 44-24 at the end of three periods.

The Blazers (10-17) received 11 points and 9 rebounds from three-year starter and senior Nicci Scorza and 8 from Brenda Berumen.

"Nicci put the work in," Addison Trail coach Rob Schader said. "She would come in on Sundays to shoot all season. She was phenomenal. She averaged 12.5 points and right around 10 rebounds a game. She did everything. I'm extremely proud of her and I'm extremely proud of them all.

"Glenbard West is big and they are a good basketball team. But I was happy with our effort."

The Hilltoppers (24-5) blocked seven shots as a team and totaled 11 steals. Lilly Soane added 9 points and Taylor Huff scored 8.

The team now advances to the 7 p.m. Thursday regional final.

"It's an amazing feeling to finally be here after four years," said Kruse, who will be playing in her first regional final. "I always dreamed about winning a conference (title) and now we are at the regionals. I'm so proud of everyone, we are such a close-knit team."