After losing to Highlands Latin 40-36 just over a week ago, it seemed like the rematch on Saturday afternoon promised to be another tough game for the HCA Lady Warriors. But after an incredible defensive effort, particularly in the first half, they cruised past the visiting Highlanders 38-20.
Both teams started slowly, with the game still scoreless with three minutes gone. With an 8-4 Lady Warrior lead after the first quarter, it still appeared a back and forth game was on the cards. However, HCA turned up the defensive pressure in the second quarter, continually turning the Lady Highlanders over and converting it into points at the other end. The Lady Warriors outscored Highlands 14-0 over the next eight minutes, and took a commanding 22-4 lead into the halftime break.
Junior Chelsea Dortch led the first-half attack with 12 points, followed by freshman Abbi Bullock’s 5.
It was straight forward from there, as the Lady Warriors steadily built their lead to 32-10 at the end of the third quarter. They subbed heavily in the final quarter, and were outscored 10-8, but were never threatened and secured the league win by a final score of 38-20.
Dortch led all scorers with 16 points, followed by senior Rachel West’s 11. Bullock had 5, while senior Hope Flournoy, freshman Kinley Deason, and sophomore Logan Gibson had 2 each.
The Lady Warriors improve to 8-2 on the year, and return to the court on December 15th when they host Oak Ridge. Oak Ridge stands at 7-3 overall and 4-0 in league play. HCA previously beat them 39-26 at the Highlands Tournament on November 17.