Bishop Miege uses huge first quarter to blow past Andale

SALINA, Kan. (Catch it Kansas) - Bishop Miege put up 37 first quarter points, allowing just 6 and never looked back in blowing out Andale to open their 4A state tournament Wednesday.

The Stags scored the game’s opening 10 points before McKenzie Fairchild got the scoring start for the Indians, and pushed it to as much as 25-2 before taking a 31 point lead to the second quarter. Andale cut into the deficit and was able to outscore the Stags in the second, but that was as close as things would get before Miege pulled away for a 74-35 win.

Freshman Kirston Verhulst led the way for Miege, scoring 18 in the first half and 23 for the game, including making 4 of 5 attempts from three. Allie Burns added 14, Gabi Henderson-Artis 13 and Grace Anne McCallop 11 to give the Stags four players in double figures.

Fairchild stuffed the stat sheet, finishing with 8 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for the Indians, while Jenna Kuepker led Andale with 10 points off the bench. The Indians’ season comes to a close with an 18-5 mark.

With the win, Miege adds to their record number of final four appearances, now up to 37 seasons reaching the semifinals in 39 all time trips in the state tournament. The two-time defending champs will take on 23-0 McPherson on Friday with eyes on a 29th title game berth.

Copyright 2022 Catch it Kansas. All rights reserved.