Defense has really dominated in D2 this season

HARTINGTON — If the statistics for the eight teams that advanced to this week’s Class D2 State Tournament can be believed, defense will determine the 2024 D2 state champion.

Wynot has always been known for its aggressive defensive play. They won’t be the only defensive squad in this year’s tourney, though.

Four of the eight teams in this year’s tournament are keeping their foes to under 35 points per game.

Sandhills-Thedford has turned in the best defensive outing all season, limiting their competition to just 28.9 points per contest.

The Lady Knights have held six foes to under 25 points and three of those weren’t even able to muster 20 points against the Green and Black.

Top-seeded Overton also relies on its defense, allowing just 32.3 points per contest. Falls City Sacred Heart is next at 33.0 points per game, while Wynot’s 33.6 comes in fourth in this year’s field.

Three Lady Blue Devils have collected over 40 steals this season. Wynot’s biggest ball thief is senior Myrah Sudbeck, who swiped 49 from her foes this season. Kenna Oligmueller and Kayla Pinkelman follow with 47 and 44 steals, respectively.

Sandhills Thedford not only possesses a potent defense, but the Lady Knights also have the top scorer in this year’s Elite Eight.

Senior forward Dayle Haake leads the class with 419 points this season. The 5-10 Haake averages a tourney-high 16.8 points per game. Top-seeded Overton and second-seeded Falls City Sacred Heart also have some big guns.

Overton’s JoLee Ryan has dropped in 395 points this season to lead a balanced and potent offense. Overton has three players in the Top 10 for scoring in this year’s tourney.