By Melanie Cane

Like a revolving door, Wildcat Girls’ Basketball coach Scottie Nails frequently substituted three to four players at a time throughout their home game against King January 23.

Somewhat frustrated by his team’s occasional complacency and lack of hustle, Coach Nails wanted to keep the Wildcats on their toes.

Early in the game the teams played evenly, exchanging possessions and shots. The Wildcats got off four to five shots, but failed to finish. Their lackluster defense allowed the Vikings too many scoring opportunities. And by the end of the quarter, the score was knotted at 12.

In the second quarter, the Wildcats picked up the pace. Alana Jones made two consecutive fast break layups off steals, setting the tone for the quarter. Katie Lefever sank one from mid-key and Kat Brydson drew a foul under the basket. Jones scored two more times on drives to the basket. The Wildcats dominated for the rest of the quarter and jumped out to a 42-19 lead at halftime.

Rye Country Day maintained its lead in the third quarter, but King threatened a come back, seizing on the sloppy defense of their opponent. In another low scoring quarter, the Wildcats added four and the Vikings six.

With a 46-25 lead, Coach Nails continued rotating players. Jessica Yaffa stood out in the last quarter scoring six points and playing excellent defense. If one is an basketball enthusiast, they can find out here on getting a hoop installed in their own space to practice and get better at the game.

While the Wildcats didn’t always gel on the court, they came out on top 60-48, and now, having won their last four games, have a 7-5 record.

Captions:

Alana Jones with the layup

Kat Brydson making a foul shot

Katie Lefever driving to the basket