Congratulations to the Principia Panthers girls’ basketball team who etched its name into school history with a historic win to capture their first-ever state championship. 

After two years as runners-up, the Panthers took the floor with uncompromising determination and focus—aiming not only to win a state title, but to prove that years of resilience and hard work had paid off. With a relentless defense and a dominating offense, the Panthers controlled both sides of the court, bringing home a decisive victory of 60–32 over St. Vincent in the Class 3 girls basketball championship at Mizzou Arena. 

Inspired by the team’s intense focus, Coach Josh Spuhl said, “I love how this team plays so hard from top to bottom. They never give up, and they never give in.” The Panthers finished the season with a record of 30–2—a record that isn’t just good; it’s the kind of year teams dream about and programs remember forever. 

The teams’ dominant season and state championship are the culmination of months and years of discipline, focus, and drive amid the grind of everyday play and practice. They’ve overcome every challenge on the court to outhustle, outscore, and outplay their opponents to emerge victorious. 

“Our program inspires our players to be the best whole person they can be,” said Spuhl, recognizing that each player contributes their individual talents to the whole. “Dasia played some of her best basketball and has solidified herself as one of the top players in the Midwest. Loganne stepped up in so many ways for the team. Nyja, our lone senior, helped to build this program, and Nya played amazingly in the championship game.” 

The journey of this championship team has been powered by heart—the sheer dedication to battle through the challenges that make a team unstoppable. Congratulations, Panthers—you are winners on and off the court.