Portland St. Patrick's girls basketball team faced Ishpeming in the Division 4 state final but suffered a 48-28 defeat. Under Coach Michelle Smith, the Shamrocks achieved their best performance in over 15 years, marking the program's highest finish since 2006. Despite the loss, the season highlighted the team鈥檚 resurgence, having last made the semifinals in 2012. Gracelyn Rockey led the Shamrocks with 10 points, while Ishpeming鈥檚 Mya Hemmer made a notable impact with 18 points and 17 rebounds. Ishpeming secured their second state title in three seasons with a decisive victory.

By the Numbers
  • Portland St. Patrick鈥檚 last runner-up finish was in 2006.
  • Ishpeming scored 20 unanswered points during the game.
  • Mya Hemmer nearly achieved a triple-double with 18 points, 17 rebounds, and 9 blocks.
Yes, But

Despite the loss, some may argue that the Shamrocks' performance this season showcases their potential for growth, considering they reached the final after a decade of struggles in tournament play.

State of Play
  • Portland St. Patrick finished as state runner-up, marking a revival for the program.
  • Ishpeming controlled the game after the first quarter, leading to a decisive win.
What's Next

Looking ahead, the Shamrocks will focus on building upon their recent success as they aim for another strong season, potentially re-establishing themselves as a consistent contender in the coming years.

Bottom Line

Even in defeat, Portland St. Patrick's season reflects a significant step forward, reinvigorating the program鈥檚 legacy and setting a strong foundation for future success.