A path to unprecedented greatness has already been traversed this season by the Hazel Green girls’ basketball team, setting an AHSAA record with an 87-game winning streak, but there is still work to be done before hitting another historic benchmark with a sixth straight Blue Map trophy.

The top-ranked Trojans withstood an early attack but held firm for a 61-47 victory over No. 2 Mortimer Jordan in Friday’s Northwest Regional semifinal at Wallace State’s Tom Drake Coliseum.

Hazel Green (33-1) fell behind early in the opening frame, Jaylen Pleasnt and Kendra Davis combining to give the Blue Devils an 8-2 lead, but responded with an 11-5 run to close out the period. Leah Brooks knocked down two mid-range shots to ignite the run and closed it with a pair of free throws

The Trojans took control in the second period, holding Mortimer Jordan to 1-of-6 shooting, and powered ahead to a 28-19 halftime lead on a 15-4 scoring run in the frame. Brooks added another six points, followed by Kristen Johnson with five points on consecutive baskets.

Mortimer Jordan came out hot in the second half and trimmed the deficit to a single bucket on a 7-0 opening run in the third period. The Trojans stretched their lead back out to seven points at the 2:45 mark but the Blue Devils closed out with a quick spurt to cut the lead down to 41-36 entering the final frame.

Hazel Green left no doubt in the fourth period, opening the frame with a 9-2 run — powered by Jaden Toney with a 3-pointer and a pair of free throws – in building a double-digit lead. The Blue Devils were able to cut it back down to seven points with 1:13 remaining but Hazel Green went 7-for-8 at the free-throw line in the final minute while adding an exclamation point on an Addison Cantrell layup on the final possession.

Star of the Game: Brooks. The junior, who started every game of Hazel Green’s 87-game winning streak, produced a double with a game-high 26 points and 11 rebounds. She was 11-for-18 from the field and added two blocks and a steal.

Did you know? Hazel Green advances to its 12th regional final in program history and ninth straight. The Trojans have appeared in 10 state tournaments, winning six state titles, and are seeking a sixth consecutive championship this season.

Stat sheet: Hazel Green – The Trojans were 52.3 percent from the floor – only 2-of-5 from beyond the arc – and 13-for-17 at the charity stripe. They enjoyed a plus-8 advantage in rebounding and forced 10 turnovers. Johnson had 10 points, two rebounds and three assists, followed by Amiyah Redus with six points, three rebounds and three assists. Mortimer Jordan – The Blue Devils shot 48.7 percent overall – 35.7 percent from 3-point range – and were 4-for-8 on free-throw attempts. Pleasnt led Mortimer Jordan with 21 points, followed by Davis with 16 points, three rebounds and two steals. Hayley Russell contributed seven points, seven rebounds and four assists.

What’s next? Hazel Green advances to the Northwest Regional final, where they’ll face either Clay-Chalkville or Muscle Shoals, Wednesday, Feb. 22, at Wallace State’s Tom Drake Coliseum.