The Corning West High girls basketball team, known as the Lady Vikings, capped an unprecedented 24‑0 campaign by hoisting the program’s first state championship trophy, delivering the city’s second overall title and cementing a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
At the heart of the historic run was senior star Cori Drummond, who was named tournament Most Valuable Player after delivering a 30‑point, 16‑rebound performance in the title game. She was joined by juniors Missy DeClemente and Melissa Schoonover, while a deep bench featuring Tiffany Wallace, Sara DeClemente, Amy Vogt and Marilyn Hensel provided the versatility that proved decisive.
The Road to the Championship
The Vikings navigated a gauntlet of tight contests, slipping past Maine‑Endwell in the sectional final before dispatching Yonkers Lincoln 60‑40 to reach the Final Four. A 71‑58 semifinal victory over Levittown Island saw Drummond explode for 31 points and 10 rebounds, setting the stage for a 56‑50 win over Kenmore East that sealed an unbeaten record.
Coach Marge Tremaine, reflecting on the team’s resilience after a Regionals loss the previous year, praised the collective effort that turned early setbacks into a championship narrative. The Corning‑Painted Post School District now celebrates two state trophies, a testament to sustained excellence.