2004 STATE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT


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CLASS 4A


Friday, March 12 - Semifinals

Dowling Catholic 43, Des Moines Lincoln 42

Stephanie Ackerson's lay-up with 15 seconds left lifted Dowling Catholic to the State 4A championship game with a 43-42 victory over second-ranked Des Moines Lincoln. The Maroons face two-time defending champion Ankeny in the 4A final Saturday.

In a game that features 12 ties and 10 lead changes, neither team was able to establish clear control. Dowling Catholic held a 25-23 halftime advantage and its biggest lead was five points. Lincoln took a 42-41 lead on two Stephanie Chelleen free throws with 1:35 left. Dowling scored the go-ahead basket when Tanna Slings found Ackerson wide open underneath for an easy lay-up. The Railsplitters were unable to get off a final shot.

The game was almost even statistically. The Maroons shot 47.1 percent from the field while Lincoln was 44.7 percent from the field. The two teams combined to commit just 13 turnovers, while Dowling making just five.

Tanna Slings led Dowling with 14 points while Ackerson added 12. Stephanie Chelleen led Des Moines Lincoln with 20 points and seven rebounds while Kristin Birocci added nine.



Des Moines Lincoln (23-2) 12 11 9 10 -- 42

Dowling Catholic (20-5) 12 13 9 9 -- 43