photo by: Carter Gaskins

Free State head coach Chris Linner calls a play Shannon Clarke (3) during a game against Gardner Edgerton Friday night at FSHS on Jan. 8, 2021.

Free State’s girls basketball team was overmatched by a talented Topeka High squad during its 64-31 defeat Wednesday night at THS.

Topeka High jumped out to a 35-18 lead at halftime, and the game was never really in doubt after that.

The Trojans, who were Class 6A runner-up two years ago, are now one win away from another trip to the state tournament. Topeka High (19-1) will host Washburn Rural (16-2) in the substate championship game at 3 p.m. Saturday. Washburn Rural secured a 50-36 win over Manhattan High.

Free State, meanwhile, ended its year with a 6-12 overall record under first-year head coach Chris Linner. Still, the FSHS senior class was able to earn its first postseason victory with a 50-26 win over Junction City on Feb. 27.

The loss on Wednesday closed the book on an impressive four-year career for Shannon Clarke, who will play collegiate basketball for the Naval Academy. It was also the final game for seniors Evy Harrell, Robin Todd, Daeci Walker, Mattie Smith, Thayu Kimori and Anna McIntire.

Free State — 31

Topeka High — 64