Haverford’s Grace Maloney handles the ball as Springfield’s Lil Ditrolio defends in the first half of a Central League quarterfinal game Thursday night. (Pete Bannan – MediaNews Group)
By Matt Smith
Natalie Wright doesn’t love shooting free throws in high-pressure moments, but she knows how to block out the noise and get the job done.
The Haverford senior forward knocked down 5-of-6 foul shots in the fourth quarter while also coming up with two crucial steals and a key basket off an inbounds play. Wright’s late-game heroics powered the third-seeded Fords to a 43-31 victory over No. 6 Springfield in the Central League quarterfinals Thursday.
With the win, Haverford advances to face No. 2 Conestoga in Friday’s semifinals – a rematch of the last two league championship games.
“I wouldn’t say I liked it, but I was ready to do it,” Wright said. “I had to step up for my team, and that’s all that matters in the moment.”
Haverford coach Lauren Pellicane had complete faith in Wright’s ability in the final quarter. She knew it was only a matter of time before Wright ignited the spark the Fords needed. With Springfield keeping the game tight through three quarters, Pellicane was looking for someone to make a game-changing play and Wright delivered on offense and defense.
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