When local media pundits mention the top girls’ basketball teams in the 13th Region, it becomes evident that the Pineville Lady Lions should be in that discussion.
Pineville (11-1) continued its streak of dominance Tuesday night with an impressive 54-38 victory over the Clay County Lady Tigers in Manchester.
As has been the formula for most of the season, Pineville’s scoring came from its triumvirate of Nadine Johnson, Ava Arnett, and Rachel Howard. Johnson led the way with 19 points, while Howard and Arnett delivered 14 and 10 points respectively.
Guard Malley Smith had a big game shooting the ball for the Lady Lions, connecting on three three-point baskets for nine points.
Clay County (5-9) was led by Madison Pendland with 13 points.
Pineville got the upper hand early over the Lady Tigers, outscoring them 18-9 in the opening frame and extending their lead to 34-17 at the half. The Lady Lions used a big 15-8 third
quarter to break the game open.
The Lady Lions face a stiff test Friday night in the opening round of the 13th Region All-A Classic against Jackson County. The tip is scheduled for 7:30.
Pineville (54) — Nadine Johnson 19, Ava Arnett 10, Rachel Howard 14, Malley Smith 9, Madison Johnson 2.
Clay County (38) — S. Jones 9, M. Pendland 13, E. Jones 3, A. Samples 7, Z. Feltner 6.
Pineviille 18 16 15. 4 — 54
Clay County 8. 9 8 13 — 38