Girls Basketball MIL Champs

The Lady Farmers had only one loss under their belt against Lanai when they entering the Maui Interscholastic League Division II Basketball Championship this year. But that didn’t phase them last weekend as they came away with the championship title, sweeping Lanai 65-37. Top scorers were Tiara English with 20 points, Illana Meyer with 17, and Lehiwa Pedro and Hepuakea Falealii both scoring 8.

“I thought the girls made a huge leap during practice and prepared well for the MILs,” said coach Lee DeRouin. “We put a great deal of pressure with our guards did a great job defensively.”

DeRouin said the girls basketball program has had a history of talented athletes. In the past seven years, they have played in six state championships, taking the title in 2009. This MIL tournament title marks the second consecutive season moving them to states. They played against Hana in the semi-finals, 39-25, and Lanai to win this year.

“Both Hana and Lanai had improved [since we played them last] and we knew we had to step it up,” said DeRouin. “It was about who wanted it more and the ladies did a great job in both games to win the championship.”

Moving forward, DeRouin said they anticipate finding out how they’re seeded in the state championship next weekend. Until then, they’ve reserved the Barn, extending their allotted practice season to prepare.

“Anything can happen in the tournament, but if we continue playing strong, we have a good chance,” said DeRouin. “It’s a great opportunity to represent Molokai in states.”