PITTSBURGH — The St. Alphonsus elementary girls basketball team defeated St. Mary's 22-18 over the weekend to win the Class A Diocesan championship at Oakland Catholic.

After the Flames took a 17-6 lead into halftime, Ellysa Paras, who led the team with nine points, sank two late free throws to put the game out of reach. Paras led the team with nine points.

Team captains Katrina Zielonka and Lindsey Miller chipped in a pair of baskets each.

"I could not be any prouder than I am of this team of girls," coach John Duken said. "Each player on the team played a critical role in achieving this goal.

"The commitment they made all season long to develop the skills necessary to win the championship was outstanding. I feel lucky and blessed to have been able to work with such a talented team of girls."

Other players on the team include Emma Cottrill, Bella Seman, Jessica Monberg, Emma Sledge, Madelyn Jack, Sarah Duken, Shelby Dillon and Maddie Beck.

Kent Beck and Mike Monberg are assistant coaches.

St. Alphonsus is located in Wexford and serves the communities of Wexford, Cranberry Township, Pine Township and Mars and Seneca Valley.