Sterling Newman 46, Rockford Christian 29: Junior guard Amy Hicks scored 20 points, but Rockford Christian (23-5) committed 27 turnovers and allowed 27 offensive rebounds and No. 3-ranked Sterling Newman pulled away in the second half. The Royals shot only 21 percent (10-for-48).

“We couldn’t seem to get many open shots, but we tried our best,” Hicks said.

The Royals, who won their first regional and posted their first 20-win season, trailed 26-21 midway through the third quarter before five straight turnovers began a 9-0 Newman run.

Megan Salvatori led the Comets (26-1) with 10 points. Her twin sister, Michele, had eight and Krissy Holmes nine. The Salvatoris’ grandmother died the morning of the game.

“It was really rough to get through that, but we know she loves us playing, so we gave it all we’ve got,” Megan Salvatori said.

- Matt Trowbridge, rrstar.com