Hadley Heck is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Xavier College Prep for AZPreps365.com

With Senior Night providing an emotional boost,  the Chandler Wolves  posted a 71-46 win over Xavier College Prep on Friday night. 

Balloons filled the gym as sixth-ranked Chandler (14-3) honored their seven seniors before the game, fueling them for their impressive victory.

“They were incredible tonight," Xavier head coach Jennifer Gillom said. "It was their Senior Night. We didn’t get them on a good night."

Coming off a 23-point win over Basha earlier this week, the Gators kept the game close throughout the first half. They trailed 34-28 at halftime.

“I thought we started out pretty well but it seemed like every time they made a comeback,”  Gillom said.

Junior guard Kailey Appel scored Xavier's first nine points. After draining two 3-pointers in the first two minutes of the game, Appel was fouled as she scored a layup, making it a 3-point play. 

The Wolves controlled the game throughout the second half.

“They made shots,” Gillom said. “It hurt our confidence when they knocked down several threes.”

“Maybe this is what it takes to get us back on again and hopefully we’ll make that change against Hamilton on Tuesday,” Gillom said.

Tenth-ranked Xavier (10-7) will play at third-ranked Hamilton (14-2) on Tuesday in the last game of the regular season. 

Chandler will conclude its regular season on the road Tuesday against fourth-ranked Perry (13-3).