Brea Advances to Final in Alaska

Brea-Olinda, facing its stiffest challenge to date, turned in a performance indicative of a national champion Wednesday night in Anchorage at the Alaska Invitational.

The Ladycats, ranked fifth nationally by USA Today, scored a 65-55 victory over sixth-ranked Cleveland (Ohio) Trinity (5-1).

“We came in knowing that if we win, we’ll never be lower than No. 5 if we don’t lose again,” Brea Coach John Hattrup said. “I’m not saying this was a national championship game, but it might have been.”

Nicole Erickson had 16 points, five rebounds and six assists, but her real value was the way she dominated Trinity’s full-court pressure all night. She committed only two turnovers.

Erickson was backed by Colleen Hudson, who had 18 points and five rebounds; Kiyoko Miller had 14; and Sarah Beckley had 13.

Trinity’s Na’sheema Hillmon, who is going to Vanderbilt next year, was in foul trouble throughout and finished with 14 points.

Brea (10-0) plays in the finals tonight.