By WESLEY REMMER

Staff writer

The King’s West Lady Warriors captured their fourth 2B SeaTac League title in five years, defeating rival Evergreen Lutheran 50-44 Tuesday night at Chief Leschi High School in Puyallup.

Megan Spence led KW (15-4) yet again, hauling in 18 rebounds in a physically charged game. She added 20 points and proved why she will most likely earn her third league MVP honor in four years.

“She literally carried us on her back at times,” coach Brian Hanley said of Spence’s performance. “She was huge on the boards, especially in the second half.”

Hanley attributed the win to an overall team effort.

“We played hard all 32 minutes,” he said. “That’s why we play these games, because the games from here on out are going to be like this.”

The Lady Warriors struggled from the field, shooting only 27 percent, but were scrappy on the boards and hit the important shots down the stretch.

“We missed a zillion shots that we usually make,” said Hanley, who believes the nerves of a close game factored into his team’s shooting. “The most inspiring thing for us though is that we never gave up.”

Junior Brielle Foley carried KW in the first half, scoring all nine of her points and grabbing seven rebounds before halftime. Senior Megan Morris played a solid game the entire way as well.

“Megan was consistent all night,” Hanley said, “and Brielle carried us in the first half.”

Tuesday’s win earned the Lady Warriors a spot in the Western Bi-District tournament, which sends the top-five finishers to the state 2B championships in Spokane.

KW will have a two-round bye, before facing an opponent to be determined on Feb. 18 at Chief Leschi High School.