In the end, experience made all the difference.
That, and a 17-2 second quarter advantage.
Maquoketa Valley, top ranked in Class 2A girls basketball, rode that quarter, strong rebounding, and pressure defense to a 52-34 triumph over second-ranked North Linn Jan. 2 in Delhi.
MV coach Scot Moenck said his team’s experience was a big factor.
“We have three seniors that have been through the battles,” Moenck said.
Two of those were Taya Tucker (15 points) and Emerson Whittenbaugh (12 points, eight rebounds).