The 2025 6A girls basketball semifinal was a battle between two elite teams, Mesa and Hamilton.

The combination of talent, tenacity, athleticism, competitiveness, and passion made this a thrilling game to watch. The pace was lightning quick, too.

But only one team could advance to the 6A final, and that was host Hamilton, with a 61-47 victory Tuesday. The game started off quickly, as both teams’ transition game, aggressive defense and passionate coaches were on display.

As the first quarter continued, Hamilton was in attack mode on both ends. Hamilton center Taylor Sipfle was having success blocking shots and scoring down low.

Mesa was able to respond, scoring a late three to end the first quarter down 16-11. The second quarter, however, was a different story.

Mesa came out firing, playing stifling defense and converting that into offensive points. With all of the momentum in Mesa’s favor, it momentarily took the lead before Hamilton was able to find its range from the three-point line and tie it back up. 

Mesa freshman Taylor Morris started heating up around the same time, making an NBA range three. The first half ended with Hamilton leading 30-29.

As the third quarter started, the physicality between both teams ramped up. Mesa proceeded to attack the paint while Hamilton played behind the arc.

Morris continued to play well, but Hamilton answered with a bunch of three-point shots, primarily by guard Malia Romero.

Heading into the fourth, Hamilton extended its lead to 46-38.

The final quarter was led by Hamilton sophomore Izzy Anderson, who was able to score in a flurry. Mesa continued to fight, but it ultimately couldn’t keep up with Hamilton.

“We fight. We have grit. We’re determined,” Mesa coach Katie Fonseca. “We game plan for everybody. Tonight just wasn’t our night. I have six seniors who deserve to win, and they fought all game. We fight in practice. We compete all the time, and we’re blue collar. They just work hard. We know nothing else. We are obviously disappointed that we lost, but I couldn’t be prouder of my team.”