The Lady Broncs basketball team ended it season on a bittersweet note with a third-place game victory against rival Gillette 70-62 in Casper on the last day of the state basketball tournament. The team bounced back from a disappointing semifinal loss to the eventual state champion Natrona County the night before in a 46-43  scrappy game that came down to the final minutes. To get to the semifinals required an opening round blowout of Riverton, 51-38.

  “It was disappointing definitely to lose in the semifinals, but overall we had a great season that we’re very proud about,” said sophomore Kaycen Townsend.

  Overall, the 23-4 record of Sheridan was tied with Natrona for the best record in the state, but for the second consecutive season, the Broncs took third place. However, the Lady Broncs will be returning a strong core from this season looking into next season. Lost from the team will be seniors Molly Ligocki, Alison Geary, and Maddy McClure, who were crucial for this season and who will be hard to replace. The two top scorers will be returning in sophomore Robbi Ryan and junior Taylor Townsend, as well as another starter in junior Emily Julian.

  The game against Natrona was a defensive battle. The Broncs didn’t get on the scoreboard till into the second quarter, putting themselves in a huge hole. But, after a strong comeback, they went into halftime down only 19-16. The game remained close until the very last minute, where the Fillies were able to knock down questionable free throw calls, and a late turnover on Sheridan’s last chance to win ended the game. Ryan led the team in scoring with 18.

  Considering the disappointment suffered in the game before, the Lady Broncs responded strongly by avenging their loss at the regional tournament by beating the Lady Camels of Gillette. Again, Ryan led the team with 19 points, followed by sophomore Dylan Wright with 11 points.