photo by: Carter Gaskins

Free State senior Shannon Clarke (3) shoots over a defender during a game against Gardner Edgerton Friday night at FSHS on Jan. 8, 2021.

In what was a physical slugfest between Free State and Olathe North, the Firebirds just couldn’t get over the hump in a 52-46 road loss on Saturday.

FSHS made a late charge by scoring 23 points in the fourth quarter, which was the exact number of points the team produced through the first three quarters combined. Seniors Shannon Clarke and Robin Todd both made big baskets down the stretch for the Firebirds.

Olathe North (11-5) seemingly always had an answer, however, which was led by an 18-point performance from junior Sania Copeland. Still, FSHS head coach Chris Linner was pleased with his team’s effort in the latest loss.

“That was the hardest we’ve played all year,” Linner said.

This marked Free State’s fourth defeat in as many games this week, falling to 4-10 overall. Clarke poured in a team-high 16 points, which included 14 points in the fourth quarter. Todd finished with 15 points after drilling a pair of 3-pointers.

Free State will host Shawnee Mission North at 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Free State 7 7 9 23 — 46

Olathe North 14 8 13 17 — 52

Free State (46)

Evy Harrell 9, Shannon Clarke 16, Robin Todd 15, Thayu Kimori 4, Anna McIntire 2.