Extra Points: Griffins Use Sister Act to Win Title

Lincoln-Way East's Caitlin McMahon is a junior and has been on the Griffins' varsity roster all season long--and in a starting role, no less. Her little sister, Meaghan, got called up from the sophomore squad not long ago.

The sister team combined for 31 points and 16 rebounds in East's 65-41 girls basketball victory over Thornton Fractional South in the championship game of the Class 4A Crete-Monee Regional on Thursday night.

Caitlin did most of the damage.  She scored 25 points and grabbed nine rebounds. But Meaghan chipped in six points, seven rebounds and a few assists. The two play forward in East coach Jim Martin's high-powered lineup.  Caitlin is 6-0 and Meaghan 5-10.

Martin has been extremely pleased with the role Caitlin has stepped in to, particularly after the Griffins lost Kelly McGovern because of season-ending surgery.

"Caitlin's been great all year," Martin said. "She's stepped up her scoring (in Kelly McGovern's absence). Meaghan's a big body who gets some rebounds for us, and she's been great for us."

The chemistry the two sisters share does not go unnoticed by any of the Griffins.

"Caitlin and I had to be really smart with the ball, and we kept getting the ball to each other," Julia Piech said.

"As long as we had good chemistry, we knew we would score," Caitlin said. "We took advantage and executed."

When asked about playing with her older sister, Meaghan McMahon said she really enjoys the experience.

"It's a tough one as to who is better," Meaghan said, a grin crossing her face. "Caitlin's better in the post, and I'm better at driving the lane."

This sister act will be around again next year at East. But, first things first. They're looking forward to taking on Marist in sectional play on Monday night at Lincoln-Way North.

Hot Links: Miss something? Read"Griffins Ride McMahon to Regional Crown".