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Girls Basketball 2025-2026

Panthers Fall in TCAL Semifinals, Await NCS Bracket Reveal

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Thursday, February 12, 2026 - The Saint Mary’s Girls Basketball team traveled to Pinole on Wednesday night to face Pinole Valley High School in the TCAL Semifinals, with a championship berth on the line. The winner would advance to Saturday’s TCAL Championship game at El Cerrito High School.

Just one week earlier, the Panthers hosted Pinole Valley on Senior Night in a tightly contested matchup. Despite generating quality scoring opportunities, Saint Mary’s struggled to convert around the rim. That theme carried into the semifinal, where the Panthers again found it difficult to get shots to fall.

Saint Mary’s defense kept the game within reach in the first half, battling on the boards and contesting shots to prevent Pinole from breaking the game open early. However, in the second half, Pinole Valley capitalized on key possessions and timely baskets to create separation, ultimately securing a 53-36 victory.

Two Panthers finished in double figures. Senior Elia Kudemus led the way with 16 points, while fellow senior Gabby Clement added 10. Sophomore Alana Rice contributed 6 points in a strong supporting effort.

The Panthers now shift their focus to the upcoming North Coast Section Girls Basketball Championships. Brackets will be released Sunday, and Saint Mary’s could find itself placed in the Division III bracket. The Panthers enter postseason play looking to build momentum and defend the Division III title they captured last season.