A second-half surge sends Williamstown to Championship Saturday in the WVSSAC Girls Basketball State Tournament.

In the Class AA semifinal at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center, Region 1 rivals Williamstown and Wheeling Central Catholic battled for a spot in the state championship game. The Maroon Knights grabbed control early behind a strong first half from Addy Peyton, who scored 16 points on perfect shooting before halftime. Erin Maxwell added 10 points for Central as they built a 36-26 halftime lead.

Williamstown flipped the momentum in the third quarter with a dominant run. Gracie Montgomery sparked the rally with a pair of three-pointers, while Anna Cosner added five straight points during the comeback. The Yellow Jackets closed the third quarter on a 13-0 run to take a 42-40 lead entering the fourth.

In the final period, Williamstown’s defense took over. Allie Fry and Arissa Burt delivered key baskets to extend the lead, while Cosner helped seal the game late as the Yellow Jackets continued their defensive pressure.

Williamstown completed the comeback to defeat Wheeling Central Catholic 53-42, advancing to the Class AA state championship game.
The Yellow Jackets will face the winner of James Monroe vs. Wyoming East on Championship Saturday in Charleston.