After a slow start, a dominant third quarter lifted the Konawaena Wildcats to a 40-21 victory in their HHSAA D-I Semifinal contest against Lahainaluna Friday.
Konawaena senior Kaliana Salazar-Harrell led the way, pouring in a game-high 27 points on 10 for 13 shooting, including 4 for 6 from beyond the arc. While they were waiting for the offense to click, a stingy performance by the Wildcat defense kept them in the game early. At halftime, the Wildcats held a 15-14 lead.
Konawaena (11-0) held the Lunas to just 16.3% shooting on the night; Lahainaluna made just seven shots all game.
Kayla Pak and Braelyn Kaui added eight points and five points, respectively, for Konawaena. The Wildcats advance to face Iolani – who defeated Campbell 54-39 in the second semifinal contest – in the HHSAA Division I Championship Saturday night. Tip time at the Neal Blaisdell Center is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Hawaii Prep 54, Kauai 46
Ka Makani defeated Kauai in the consolation bracket, and will play Damien in Saturday’s HHSAA D-II 5th place game. Tip time at the Neal Blaisdell Center is scheduled for 11 a.m.