Warriors capture regional title

Junior center Kierra Morris had 25 points, 13 rebounds and six blocked shots to lead Morgan Park Academy to its third straight Class 1A regional title with a 45-25 win over Illinois Lutheran.

“This means a lot to me, it’s my first regional title ever,’’ said the 6-foot-3 Morris, a transfer from Luther South. “I can’t even describe it.’’

Morgan Park Academy (20-7) claimed its first 20-victory season, outscoring Illinois Lutheran 25-3 during the second and third quarters. Forward Sydney Stewart sparked the defensive effort in the middle of the game that put the Warriors ahead 35-17 going into the fourth quarter.

“Every regional title is a great one, but this is a special one since we set the school record for the most wins,’’ said coach Tom Drahozal, whose team defeated Illinois Lutheran for the third time this season. Morgan Park Academy advances to the Mooseheart sectional next week.

Rebecca Johns led Illinois Lutheran with eight points.