Much like two nights earlier at Harlan when they raced to an 11-point lead on the way to a win over the Lady Dragons, Bell County got off to another fast start Thursday at Middlesboro.
The Lady Cats outscored Middlesboro 22-7 in the first quarter and coasted from there on the way to a 64-41 win that improved their record to 14-9 overall and 4-1 in 52nd District action.
“It was a good district road win for our team,” Bell County coach David Teague said. “We played well early and did some good things both defensively and offensively.  We didn’t shoot the ball particularly well tonight, but was proud of the kids for continuing to battle and play through that. “
Senior forward Gracie Jo Wilder led a balanced Bell attack with 17 points. Lauren McGeorge and Kairi Lamb added 16 and 13 points, respectively.
Senior center Halaya Brown paced the 5-18 Lady Jackets with 18 points.
Bell County plays at Whitley County on Friday. Middlesboro plays host to Oneida Baptist on Tuesday.
“We’ve got a quick turnaround tomorrow as we good on the road again to play a good Whitley County team,” Teague said. “We will have to be focused and bring energy from the start. “
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Bell County (64) — Neveah Allen 7, Lauren McGeorge 16, Kairi Lamb 13, Gracie Jo Wilder 17, Addyson Lucas 4, Lyla Scearse 4, Emma Farmer 3.
Middlesboro (41) — Halaya Brown 18, Keevi Betts 7, Morgan Martin 10, Millie Roberts 3, Emily Lambert 3.

Bell County 22 12 10 20 — 64
Middlesboro 7 16 7 11 — 41