Nazareth is headed back to the Alamodome after edging previously unbeaten Gordon in a thrilling UIL Class 1A Division II state semifinal Monday night at the Western Texas Coliseum.
With the victory, Nazareth (30-6) advances to the UIL Class 1A state tournament for a remarkable 33rd time. Standing in the way of another championship is Saltillo (34-6), setting up a rematch of last year’s title game. The Swiftettes claimed that contest 53-31 to secure their 26th state championship since their first appearance in 1976. Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. Thursday afternoon in San Antonio.
The formula looked familiar early. Nazareth blitzed Gordon with a 16-5 first-quarter run, showcasing balanced scoring as six players contributed in the opening frame. Crisp ball movement and timely three-pointers built a cushion that stretched to 28-13 late in the second quarter behind Kambri Cleavenger’s team-high 20 points.
But Gordon refused to fade. Faith Garnett ignited the comeback late in the first half, sparking a 31-20 run that carried into the third quarter. Garnett poured in 23 points, slicing into the deficit with drives, pull-up jumpers and deep three-pointers. By the end of the third, Nazareth’s once-comfortable lead had shrunk to 41-37.
The fourth quarter turned into a defensive battle. Possessions slowed, free throws mounted and every rebound carried weight. After a late bucket cut the Swiftettes’ lead to one, Madison Brockman split a pair of free throws to make it 48-46 with seconds remaining.
Gordon had one final chance, but Nazareth’s defense held firm. A contested shot at the buzzer fell short, sealing another gritty postseason win.
