Branson puts on dominant defensive performance in CIF State Division IV girls basketball championship

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Defense wins championships.

That sentiment was on full display Saturday morning at the Golden 1 Center as the Branson girls basketball team put on a defensive clinic in a 46-23 victory over Imperial in the CIF State Division IV girls basketball championship game.

The 23-point output by Imperial are the fewest points ever scored in a CIF girls basketball state championship game.

After an evenly played first quarter that finished with the score tied at 8-8, Branson turned up the defensive pressure. The Bulls did not allow a point in the second quarter, outscoring Imperial 14-0 to take a 22-8 halftime lead.

They poured it on in the third quarter, outscoring the Tigers 18-6 to put the game away.

Hannah Golan dominated the paint for Branson, racking up 21 points, 15 rebounds, five steals, and two blocks. Jaliyah Wiggins added 10 points, five rebounds, and three assists for Branson.

Sierra Morris led the Tigers with 11 points and eight rebounds.

PHOTO GALLERY

(All photos by Ralph Thompson)