This year, Stoughton experienced “March Madness” first hand, as the SHS girls’ basketball team made a run through the Division 1 South Sectional Basketball Tournament.

The 17-1, Hockomock League Champion Black Knights received the number 2 seed in the tournament, and hosted Falmouth in the opening round. Enjoying their largest and rowdiest crowd of the season, Stoughton dominated the visiting Clippers from the opening tap. The attack was led by the captains, senior Charmaine Steele and junior Heather Jacobs, who proved to be too tough inside for Falmouth.

After their big victory in the first game, the Black Knights hosted the Durfee Hilltoppers. Despite keeping close with Stoughton for most of the game, Durfee ran out of steam and couldn’t pull off the upset. Once again, Steele and Jacobs dominated the boards, and solid perimeter play by freshman Christine Cotter and sophomore Courtney Casserly sealed the win. The Knights also benefited from a spark off the bench from juniors Lani Telian and Michelle Hazel.

With that win, Stoughton traveled to Massasoit Community College for a semi-final match-up with Braintree. After a long back-and-forth battle, Stoughton finally prevailed in overtime. The gut-wrenching two-point victory earned the local girls a trip to UMass Boston for the Division 1 South Sectional Finals, where they faced top-seeded Brockton.

The highly-favored Brockton Boxers pressured Stoughton, utilizing their quickness and athleticism, and in the end proved why they were ranked number one in the state (and would go on to win the state championship). Despite double-doubles from both Steele and Jacobs, the Knights fell to Brockton, ending their run.

Although the Black Knights didn’t go all the way, they definitely made news throughout the town of Stoughton. A team that drew modest crowds in the regular season had the gym filled to capacity for both home games during the tournament.

Most impressive though, was the following that Stoughton received as they traveled to Massasoit and UMass Boston. People who had never gone to a girls’ basketball game were eager to jump on the bandwagon and cheer on their local stars. Among the spectators were students, teachers, and administrators from Stoughton High and others who had no connection with the school.

They may not have won the state title, but finishing with a 20-2 record, and reaching the South Sectional Finals, this year’s girls’ basketball team certainly captivated the entire town of Stoughton.