Good Hope Defeats St. Michael Catholic 38-30 in 4A Girls’ Semifinals

February 25, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, AL – The defending Class 4A girls’ basketball state champions, Good Hope Lady Raiders, secured a hard-fought 38-30 victory over St. Michael Catholic on Tuesday, earning a spot in the state finals at Legacy Arena in Birmingham. The Raiders, now 28-5, relied on dominant rebounding and second-chance opportunities to overcome the Cardinals (23-4) from Fairhope and edge closer to back-to-back championships.

Head coach Justin Aby’s Raiders controlled the battle on the boards, out-rebounding St. Michael 43-33, including a crucial 18 offensive rebounds compared to the Cardinals’ 11. The Raiders capitalized, scoring 16 second-chance points, which proved pivotal in the win. St. Michael managed only 7 second-chance points in comparison.

Key Performers for Good Hope

Sophie Konrad: Led the Raiders with a double-double, scoring 15 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, including four on the offensive end, which led to critical scoring opportunities.
Ava McSwain: Contributed 13 points, including three three-pointers, and collected nine rebounds, three of which were offensive.
Jolee McHan: Secured five offensive rebounds and totaled 11 boards, providing crucial support in the paint.

Good Hope also excelled at the free-throw line, converting 8-of-10 attempts and creating additional scoring opportunities with 11 steals.

Samantha Kokoszka (23) of St. Michael Catholic lays in a shot in the Class 4A girls’ semifinals. (AHSAA PHOTO | David Holtsford)

St. Michael Catholic’s Strong Effort

Despite the loss, St. Michael, led by head coach David Offerle, kept the game competitive, pulling within four points in the final 90 seconds of play. The Cardinals’ aggressive defense forced 18 turnovers and collected 13 steals to stay within reach.

Molly McDonald: Led the Cardinals in scoring with 12 points.
Samantha Kokoszka: Added 7 points and a team-high 10 rebounds.
Caroline Callahan: Contributed 6 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 steals.

The Raiders’ experience and depth proved the difference as they advance in their pursuit of another state title. Good Hope will now prepare for the championship game, seeking to defend their title and bring another blue map back to Cullman County.

FEATURED IMAGE: Good Hope’s Jolee McHan (25) and St. Michael forward Caroline Callahan (3) battle for the ball in the Class 4A girls’ semifinals at Legacy Arena. (AHSAA PHOTO | David Holtsford)