Gunnison and Manti girls fall in playoffs

MANTI — Both Manti and Gunnison saw their girls basketball seasons come to an end Saturday as the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) state tournaments narrowed the field. Both fell in their respective playoff matchups on Feb. 14, marking the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaigns for both programs.

Manti

In the 3A state tournament, the Manti Templars traveled to face Layton Christian Academy, ultimately falling 57-41. The loss ended a challenging season for the Templars, who finished with a 5-19 overall record.

The Eagles of Layton Christian established control early, but Manti relied on sophomore point guard Madelyn Bridges to keep the offense moving. Bridges, who led the team in scoring throughout the season with an average of 13.1 points per game, provided a spark alongside senior forward Carlie Thompson. Thompson anchored the Templars’ presence in the paint, leading the team in rebounding during her final high school season. Despite the effort, Layton Christian’s depth proved too much, securing their third consecutive victory over Manti in recent years.

Gunnison Valley

Further south in the 2A bracket, the Gunnison Valley Bulldogs faced a similar fate on the road against Draper American Preparatory Academy. The Bulldogs struggled to find their offensive rhythm in a 46-32 loss to the Eagles.

Gunnison Valley entered the contest with momentum after a dominant 63-19 victory over American Prep West Valley earlier in the week. However, Draper APA’s defense stifled the Bulldogs’ primary scoring threats. Sophomore standout Bartholomew, who entered the postseason averaging 15.8 points per game, faced heavy pressure throughout the night. Junior A. Anderson contributed on the boards, but the Bulldogs could not overcome a scoring drought in the second half.

The loss leaves Gunnison Valley with a 9-15 final record for the season.