NorthWood’s girls basketball team poses for a team pic following their championship victory at the Bankers Classic tournament Saturday. In front from left are Reagan Hartman, Kendal Miller, Alea Minnich. In back are Kate Rulli, Karlie Fielstra, Mackenzie Bergman, Neely Trenshaw, Bre Wise and Maddy Payne. (Photo provided)

MIDDLEBURY — NorthWood’s girls claimed the championship at the Bankers Classic Tournament at Northridge Saturday, first beating Merrillville 64-39 and then the host Raiders, 57-49, in the title game.

The Black Swish were tied up 25-25 at halftime of Saturday’s opener with Merrillville but used a 39-14 second half to put it away. Maddy Payne poured in 23 points in that contest, and Kate Rulli scored 18. Merrillville got 18 points from Torri Miller.

NorthWood got off to a slow start in the championship, too, falling behind 13-6 at the first quarter break but surging ahead with a 15-6 second period. Rulli dropped 20 points to lead the Panthers in the title game, while Alea Minnich put up 15, and Kenzie Bergman scored 11 as the third NorthWood player in double figures. Morgan Litwiller set a school single-game record for Ridge with 34 points, but it was no match for NorthWood’s balance.

Payne and Litwiller were both named to the all-tourney team, and Rulli earned championship game MVP honors.

NorthWood (12-4) opens the new year at Northern Lakes Conference foe Wawasee Jan. 5.