By Landon Willmuth
UCA sportswriting
The Greenbrier Panthers took advantage of Senior Night on Tuesday, defeating the Morrilton Red Devils, 52-49.
"This game was big because the kids will remember this one for a long time," Greenbrier coach Jason Johnson said, referring to the Senior Night victory. "(The seniors) are all great guys, very likable, work hard, and it's just been a great experience to coach them."
After a sloppy first quarter that saw 10 combined turnovers, the Panthers held a 9-6 lead. When the Red Devils tied the score at 13 with 3:40 left in the first half, Greenbrier went on a 8-0 run to lead 21-13 at half.
The second half started practically the same as the first with sloppy play by both teams and missed shots.
Greenbrier led 34-28 going into the fourth quarter, but that lead did not hold forever. Morrilton charged back into the game behind the superb play of junior Tyrone Willis, who with 1:40 left in the game, hit a pull-up jumper to bring the Red Devils within three points.
“They definitely made a comeback on us, but I was proud of the way our guys held off their comeback and got the win,” Greenbrier coach Jason Johnson said. "What helped us out a lot was our ability to make free throws at the end of the game and put more pressure on them to score."
After senior center Matt Cain missed a his second free throw attempt that would have put Greenbrier up by four with three seconds left in the game, Morrilton junior guard David Ford heaved an improbable half-court shot that would have tied the game at 52 apiece, but it came up a little short.
The Panthers (12-12 overall, 4-8 in the 5A-West) were led by Neal Burcham with 17 points and six rebounds. Jordan Crank pitched in 12 points. Willis led the Red Devils with 18 points.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Lady Panthers beat Morrilton on Senior Night
By Stephen Simpson
UCA sportswriting
The Greenbrier Lady Panthers held on to an early lead against the Morrilton Lady Devil Dogs on Tuesday to take a 51-44 win on Senior Night at Panther Pavilion.
"We played good enough to win," Greenbrier coach Todd Schaefer said, adding that he he was glad the Lady Panthers could hold on for their seniors and fans.
The Lady Panthers jumped to an early lead thanks to good 3-point shooting and an overall dominant game from Cicely New, who had 22 points in her final game at the Pavilion.
Greenbrier increased the lead to 18 points early in the third quarter before the Lady Devil Dogs started making a comeback, thanks to some careless turnovers and some foul trouble by Greenbrier. Thanks to some good shooting selections by the Lady Devil Dogs, they cut the lead to four points late in the fourth, but thanks to New, the Lady Panthers held on to win.
"She has been a good player for us all year," Schaefer said. "No doubt, she is a good basketball player for us."
The Lady Panthers will close the regular season Friday.
UCA sportswriting
The Greenbrier Lady Panthers held on to an early lead against the Morrilton Lady Devil Dogs on Tuesday to take a 51-44 win on Senior Night at Panther Pavilion.
"We played good enough to win," Greenbrier coach Todd Schaefer said, adding that he he was glad the Lady Panthers could hold on for their seniors and fans.
The Lady Panthers jumped to an early lead thanks to good 3-point shooting and an overall dominant game from Cicely New, who had 22 points in her final game at the Pavilion.
Greenbrier increased the lead to 18 points early in the third quarter before the Lady Devil Dogs started making a comeback, thanks to some careless turnovers and some foul trouble by Greenbrier. Thanks to some good shooting selections by the Lady Devil Dogs, they cut the lead to four points late in the fourth, but thanks to New, the Lady Panthers held on to win.
"She has been a good player for us all year," Schaefer said. "No doubt, she is a good basketball player for us."
The Lady Panthers will close the regular season Friday.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Wampus Cats handle Russellville by 14
By Zachary O'Neal
UCA sportswriting
Conway's Wampus Cats held off a Russellville rally Tuesday, defeating the Cyclones, 69-55, at Buzz Bolding Arena.
After a 2-2 tie, the Wampus Cats jumped out to a 21-9 lead after one quarter, increasing their lead to 33-19 at halftime by creating opportunities to attack the basket against the Cyclone defense.
Things started to change toward the end of the third quarter as the Cyclones rallied within 49-41.
“For the most part, it went well,” Conway coach James Bates said. “When we were up 49-30, we let them get back to 49-41, and we let that run go. I think Micah (Delph) was on the bench in that stretch, so we had to get him back on the floor.
"Our younger guards don’t really right now understand the tempo part. When you miss two or three shots, you need to get a good one the next time down.”
The Wampus Cats regained their 19-point lead as they rallied in the beginning of the fourth quarter.
“I thought in the third quarter we were going to pull out of it,” Russellville coach Joe Sitkowski said. “They were a good team. We just couldn’t do it.”
The Wampus Cats improved to 19-6 overall, 10-3 in the 7A/6A-Central conference after the Senior Night victory.
“We control our destiny,” Delph said. “They are going to have to step up and make their own legacy because I’m a senior now.”
The top contributors were Delph with 18 points, Colt Fason with 15, Everett Reed with 14 and Tim Boyd with 11.
The Wampus Cats head on the road Friday to finish the regular season at Little Rock Catholic. The defending Class 7A state champions, they'll open play next week in the 2011 State Tournament at Rogers Heritage.
UCA sportswriting
Conway's Wampus Cats held off a Russellville rally Tuesday, defeating the Cyclones, 69-55, at Buzz Bolding Arena.
After a 2-2 tie, the Wampus Cats jumped out to a 21-9 lead after one quarter, increasing their lead to 33-19 at halftime by creating opportunities to attack the basket against the Cyclone defense.
Things started to change toward the end of the third quarter as the Cyclones rallied within 49-41.
“For the most part, it went well,” Conway coach James Bates said. “When we were up 49-30, we let them get back to 49-41, and we let that run go. I think Micah (Delph) was on the bench in that stretch, so we had to get him back on the floor.
"Our younger guards don’t really right now understand the tempo part. When you miss two or three shots, you need to get a good one the next time down.”
The Wampus Cats regained their 19-point lead as they rallied in the beginning of the fourth quarter.
“I thought in the third quarter we were going to pull out of it,” Russellville coach Joe Sitkowski said. “They were a good team. We just couldn’t do it.”
The Wampus Cats improved to 19-6 overall, 10-3 in the 7A/6A-Central conference after the Senior Night victory.
“We control our destiny,” Delph said. “They are going to have to step up and make their own legacy because I’m a senior now.”
The top contributors were Delph with 18 points, Colt Fason with 15, Everett Reed with 14 and Tim Boyd with 11.
The Wampus Cats head on the road Friday to finish the regular season at Little Rock Catholic. The defending Class 7A state champions, they'll open play next week in the 2011 State Tournament at Rogers Heritage.
Lady Cats fall on Senior Night, take No. 4 seed to state tournament
By Zach Hayes and Courtney Howard
UCA sportswriting
Russellville's Lady Cyclones spoiled Senior Night for Conway at Buzz Bolding Arena on Tuesday, 55-42.
The Lady Cyclones improved to 21-6 for the season. Conway fell to 19-6 after the 7A/6A-Central loss, which will give the Lady Cats the league's No. 4 seed heading into next week's Class 7A State Tournament.
"Other then losing on Senior Night, it went well for us," Conway coach Ashley Nance said. "You never want to lose, but after this game we set ourselves up for the fourth seed going into state. We're sitting pretty good.
"There is a much bigger picture to this game.”
The importance of a No. 4 seed is that the Lady Cats will be in the opposite bracket from undefeated North Little Rock and wouldn't face the Lady Charging Wildcats until the championship game.
The Lady Cats started the game with their five seniors — Taylor Gault, Christen Parham, Quay Allen-Smith, Bre Anna Hobbs and Davidra Browser — but quickly made substitutions as the game became more physical and the Lady Cyclones began scoring.
"It was tough to adjust to what the officials were wanting us to play because we’re a physical team, but we couldn’t be as physical," Nance said. "That was a big problem.”
The Lady Cats held their own in the first quarter, building a 16-9 lead, but the Lady Cyclones rallied to an 18-18 tie with 2:40 left in the second quarter. From there, Russellville pushed to lead going into halftime, 24-21. Russellville wouldn’t surrender that edge in the second half. The Lady Cyclones kept the Lady Cats down by three-to-five points in the third period until Conway's Taylor Gault scored on a fast break layup to cut the difference to 30-29. But Russellville stopped the rally and ended the third quarter ahead by 38-32 thanks to a Kaylee Wiedower shot at the buzzer.
Gault nailed a huge 3-pointer, cutting the Lady Cyclone lead to three, 38-35, but again Russellville rallied. With less than three minutes left and a 45-38 lead, the Lady Cyclones’ Kaylee Wiedower, who led the team with 23 points, scored back-to-buckets — a jumper and a 3-pointer — to increase the lead to 50-38 and ensure victory for the Lady Cyclones.
Gault led Conway with 23 points and was the only Lady Cat scoring in double figures. She admitted the team played frustrated the whole night, but the physicality was “just a part of basketball you have to overcome.”
But she said the Lady Cats would be ready for state.
"“I know my role going into state,”" she said. "“I am going to talk to my team and motivate them.”"
Russellville coach Steve Wiedower said his team played well.
"It's a big win for us," he said. "“Conway is aggressive, and I tip my hat off to them”."
Conway is on the road Friday against the Mount St. Mary Belles to finish the regular season.
UCA sportswriting
Russellville's Lady Cyclones spoiled Senior Night for Conway at Buzz Bolding Arena on Tuesday, 55-42.
The Lady Cyclones improved to 21-6 for the season. Conway fell to 19-6 after the 7A/6A-Central loss, which will give the Lady Cats the league's No. 4 seed heading into next week's Class 7A State Tournament.
"Other then losing on Senior Night, it went well for us," Conway coach Ashley Nance said. "You never want to lose, but after this game we set ourselves up for the fourth seed going into state. We're sitting pretty good.
"There is a much bigger picture to this game.”
The importance of a No. 4 seed is that the Lady Cats will be in the opposite bracket from undefeated North Little Rock and wouldn't face the Lady Charging Wildcats until the championship game.
The Lady Cats started the game with their five seniors — Taylor Gault, Christen Parham, Quay Allen-Smith, Bre Anna Hobbs and Davidra Browser — but quickly made substitutions as the game became more physical and the Lady Cyclones began scoring.
"It was tough to adjust to what the officials were wanting us to play because we’re a physical team, but we couldn’t be as physical," Nance said. "That was a big problem.”
The Lady Cats held their own in the first quarter, building a 16-9 lead, but the Lady Cyclones rallied to an 18-18 tie with 2:40 left in the second quarter. From there, Russellville pushed to lead going into halftime, 24-21. Russellville wouldn’t surrender that edge in the second half. The Lady Cyclones kept the Lady Cats down by three-to-five points in the third period until Conway's Taylor Gault scored on a fast break layup to cut the difference to 30-29. But Russellville stopped the rally and ended the third quarter ahead by 38-32 thanks to a Kaylee Wiedower shot at the buzzer.
Gault nailed a huge 3-pointer, cutting the Lady Cyclone lead to three, 38-35, but again Russellville rallied. With less than three minutes left and a 45-38 lead, the Lady Cyclones’ Kaylee Wiedower, who led the team with 23 points, scored back-to-buckets — a jumper and a 3-pointer — to increase the lead to 50-38 and ensure victory for the Lady Cyclones.
Gault led Conway with 23 points and was the only Lady Cat scoring in double figures. She admitted the team played frustrated the whole night, but the physicality was “just a part of basketball you have to overcome.”
But she said the Lady Cats would be ready for state.
"“I know my role going into state,”" she said. "“I am going to talk to my team and motivate them.”"
Russellville coach Steve Wiedower said his team played well.
"It's a big win for us," he said. "“Conway is aggressive, and I tip my hat off to them”."
Conway is on the road Friday against the Mount St. Mary Belles to finish the regular season.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Wampus Cats fall at Van Buren
By Zachary O'Neal
UCA sportswriting
The Conway High Wampus Cats were shut down by the Van Buren Pointers’ defense Friday, leading to a 58-49 loss at Van Buren.
The Wampus Cats had a difficult time breaking down the Pointers’ post man Hooper Vint, who stands at 6 feet, 11 inches.
“I thought our kids had a tough time with number 29,” Conway coach James Bates said. “He was 6-11 and skilled. Our tallest guy is 6-6."
The Pointers jumped ahead in the first quarter with an 8-0 lead. The Wampus Cats rallied to force a 10-10 tie, but Van Buren led at halftime, 31-19.
“We had too many guys that struggled to put the ball in the basket,” Bates said. “We did have a lot of possessions, though.”
The Wampus Cats outscored the Pointers in the third quarter, 16-14, and in the fourth, 14-13. Unfortunately for them, though, the hole they were in was a bit deep, causing them to be 16-6 overall and 9-3 in the 7A/6A Central conference.
Micah Delph and Jim Boyd helped keep the Wampus Cats in the game with 12 points apiece.
The Wampus Cats play at home Tuesday against the Russellville High School Cyclones.
UCA sportswriting
The Conway High Wampus Cats were shut down by the Van Buren Pointers’ defense Friday, leading to a 58-49 loss at Van Buren.
The Wampus Cats had a difficult time breaking down the Pointers’ post man Hooper Vint, who stands at 6 feet, 11 inches.
“I thought our kids had a tough time with number 29,” Conway coach James Bates said. “He was 6-11 and skilled. Our tallest guy is 6-6."
The Pointers jumped ahead in the first quarter with an 8-0 lead. The Wampus Cats rallied to force a 10-10 tie, but Van Buren led at halftime, 31-19.
“We had too many guys that struggled to put the ball in the basket,” Bates said. “We did have a lot of possessions, though.”
The Wampus Cats outscored the Pointers in the third quarter, 16-14, and in the fourth, 14-13. Unfortunately for them, though, the hole they were in was a bit deep, causing them to be 16-6 overall and 9-3 in the 7A/6A Central conference.
Micah Delph and Jim Boyd helped keep the Wampus Cats in the game with 12 points apiece.
The Wampus Cats play at home Tuesday against the Russellville High School Cyclones.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Lady Cats roll at Van Buren
By Courtney Howard
UCA sportswriting
Conway's Lady Cats carried home a victory Friday night from Van Buren, knocking off the Lady Pointers, 57-39.
Conway controlled from the beginning, building its lead to 25 points. The Lady Cats made nine 3-point shots for the game.
The Lady Cats left halftime leading 35-18.
"It was a fun night," Conway coach Ashley Nance said. "The bench got a lot of minutes and everyone got to play."
Conway had four players hit double figures. Senior Taylor Gault led with 16 points. Alexus Clardy and Enjonae Chambers hit 13 apiece, and Madison Foster had 10.
"Van Buren is normally good at hitting 3-point shots, but they only hit two this game,” Nance said. "It was a good game for us and we had a good time."
Conway is preparing for Senior Night at Buzz Bolding Arena on Tuesday when the Lady Cats will play host to Russellville with a 6 p.m. tip.
UCA sportswriting
Conway's Lady Cats carried home a victory Friday night from Van Buren, knocking off the Lady Pointers, 57-39.
Conway controlled from the beginning, building its lead to 25 points. The Lady Cats made nine 3-point shots for the game.
The Lady Cats left halftime leading 35-18.
"It was a fun night," Conway coach Ashley Nance said. "The bench got a lot of minutes and everyone got to play."
Conway had four players hit double figures. Senior Taylor Gault led with 16 points. Alexus Clardy and Enjonae Chambers hit 13 apiece, and Madison Foster had 10.
"Van Buren is normally good at hitting 3-point shots, but they only hit two this game,” Nance said. "It was a good game for us and we had a good time."
Conway is preparing for Senior Night at Buzz Bolding Arena on Tuesday when the Lady Cats will play host to Russellville with a 6 p.m. tip.
Conway Christian ends season in district tourney
By Katie Davis
UCA sportswriting
The Conway Christian Lady Eagles fell short of St. Joseph in the quarterfinals of the 2A-5 North District Tournament at Magnet Cove.
St. Joseph prevailed, 55-44, Wednesday to end Conway Christian's season.
Conway Christian had ended St. Joe's season last year in the Class 2A state championship game. The teams had split prior meetings this season.
“St. Joseph continued to improve throughout the season," Conway Christian coach Jeremy Carson said. "Coach (Chris) Kordsmeier and Coach (Luke) Davis did a great job preparing for us this time.”
The Lady Eagles were ahead in the first quarter, 15-11, but St. Joseph pulled ahead before halftime, 27-24.
“We played to the best of our abilities up to that point and made a couple adjustments at halftime,” Carson said.
The adjustments included shutting out Lady Bulldog Amy Schichtl, who was shooting 3-pointers in the first half.
The Lady Bulldogs continued on the roll, increasing their lead to 41-36 after the third quarter and then brought the win home in the fourth.
Kelly Hays earned 21 points for the Lady Eagles. Christina DenHartog had 12 and also led with two assists. Lexie Dather led with seven rebounds and DenHartog and Sarah Martin added four each.
UCA sportswriting
The Conway Christian Lady Eagles fell short of St. Joseph in the quarterfinals of the 2A-5 North District Tournament at Magnet Cove.
St. Joseph prevailed, 55-44, Wednesday to end Conway Christian's season.
Conway Christian had ended St. Joe's season last year in the Class 2A state championship game. The teams had split prior meetings this season.
“St. Joseph continued to improve throughout the season," Conway Christian coach Jeremy Carson said. "Coach (Chris) Kordsmeier and Coach (Luke) Davis did a great job preparing for us this time.”
The Lady Eagles were ahead in the first quarter, 15-11, but St. Joseph pulled ahead before halftime, 27-24.
“We played to the best of our abilities up to that point and made a couple adjustments at halftime,” Carson said.
The adjustments included shutting out Lady Bulldog Amy Schichtl, who was shooting 3-pointers in the first half.
The Lady Bulldogs continued on the roll, increasing their lead to 41-36 after the third quarter and then brought the win home in the fourth.
Kelly Hays earned 21 points for the Lady Eagles. Christina DenHartog had 12 and also led with two assists. Lexie Dather led with seven rebounds and DenHartog and Sarah Martin added four each.
Greenbrier knocks off Greenwood boys
By Landon Willmuth
UCA sportswriting
Greenbrier’s Panthers defeated the Greenwood Bulldogs, 63-52, Friday night in a 5A-West conference game at Panther Pavilion.
Although both teams came in with losing records, any game in the 5A-West is is going to be a battle. The Panthers seized the opportunity, coming away with the win.
Greenbrier never trailed in the game and leaned heavily on junior Neal Burcham’s 32 points.
“He was not double- and triple-teamed this game like he normally is, so we just ran everything through him,” Greenbrier coach Jason Johnson said. “He was just getting good looks, scoring inside and outside with his 3-pointer."
As time was running out at the end of the first half, the Bulldogs heaved an improbable half-court shot to bring them within 12 points of the Panthers. Normally shots like this can have huge momentum swings for a team, but it did not seem to faze the Panthers.
"It was a very impressive shot, but our kids came out executing the same way we had in the first half,” Johnson said. "It truly did not affect the way our team played."
Greenwood made a run in the fourth quarter, but the Panthers stayed strong and held off the Bulldogs' late surge to pull off the win at home.
The Panthers seemed to shoot the ball very effectively and leaned heavily on Burcham. He was practically unstoppable and shot a very high percentage from the field.
“Neal had a very good game for us, and we realized early that he was going to be getting good looks so we just kept feeding him the ball,” Johnson said.
The Panthers (11-12 overall, 3-8 in conference play) will be back in action at home on Tuesday night against 5A-West foe Morrilton.
UCA sportswriting
Greenbrier’s Panthers defeated the Greenwood Bulldogs, 63-52, Friday night in a 5A-West conference game at Panther Pavilion.
Although both teams came in with losing records, any game in the 5A-West is is going to be a battle. The Panthers seized the opportunity, coming away with the win.
Greenbrier never trailed in the game and leaned heavily on junior Neal Burcham’s 32 points.
“He was not double- and triple-teamed this game like he normally is, so we just ran everything through him,” Greenbrier coach Jason Johnson said. “He was just getting good looks, scoring inside and outside with his 3-pointer."
As time was running out at the end of the first half, the Bulldogs heaved an improbable half-court shot to bring them within 12 points of the Panthers. Normally shots like this can have huge momentum swings for a team, but it did not seem to faze the Panthers.
"It was a very impressive shot, but our kids came out executing the same way we had in the first half,” Johnson said. "It truly did not affect the way our team played."
Greenwood made a run in the fourth quarter, but the Panthers stayed strong and held off the Bulldogs' late surge to pull off the win at home.
The Panthers seemed to shoot the ball very effectively and leaned heavily on Burcham. He was practically unstoppable and shot a very high percentage from the field.
“Neal had a very good game for us, and we realized early that he was going to be getting good looks so we just kept feeding him the ball,” Johnson said.
The Panthers (11-12 overall, 3-8 in conference play) will be back in action at home on Tuesday night against 5A-West foe Morrilton.
Lady Panthers come close against Greenwood
By Stephen Simpson
UCA sportswriting
The Greenbrier Lady Panthers suffered a tough 5A-West home loss in double overtime Friday to the No. 2 team in the state, Greenwood, 63-58.
The Lady Bulldogs, the defending Class 5A state champions, kept their momentum going for a run at a repeat by staying perfect on the road. They improved to 18-8 overall and 10-2 in conference play.
The Lady Panthers (12-14, 5-6) did give them quite a challenge, though, throughout the game.
"I thought we played one of the best games of the season " Coach Todd Schaefer said of his Lady Panthers. "It was a hard-fought game."
The game was back and forth from the start.
Cicely New kept the Lady Panthers in the game with 23 points.
UCA sportswriting
The Greenbrier Lady Panthers suffered a tough 5A-West home loss in double overtime Friday to the No. 2 team in the state, Greenwood, 63-58.
The Lady Bulldogs, the defending Class 5A state champions, kept their momentum going for a run at a repeat by staying perfect on the road. They improved to 18-8 overall and 10-2 in conference play.
The Lady Panthers (12-14, 5-6) did give them quite a challenge, though, throughout the game.
"I thought we played one of the best games of the season " Coach Todd Schaefer said of his Lady Panthers. "It was a hard-fought game."
The game was back and forth from the start.
Cicely New kept the Lady Panthers in the game with 23 points.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Both St. Joseph teams advance to district semifinals
By Ben Keller
UCA sportswriting
St. Joseph's Lady Bulldogs rallied to beat the Conway Christian Lady Eagles, 55-44 Wednesday in the 2A-5 North District Tournament at Magnet Cove.
The Lady Bulldogs move on to Friday's semifinals, but Wednesday's win clinched a berth to next week's Class 2A East Regional at Carlisle.
“I thought we played really well, and I was real proud of our effort,” coach Chris Kordsmeier said. “It was a hard-fought game by both teams and it was a good rival game against Conway Christian.”
Kordsmeier said both teams laid everything on the line since it was an elimination game and there was a lot at stake.
The Lady Bulldogs had a narrow lead going into halftime, 27-24. They came back after being outscored during the first period, 15-11. St. Joseph stayed ahead during the third period, ending the quarter with a 41-36 lead, and sealed their victory in the fourth.
Kordsmeier said he thought his team played well against the Lady Eagles, and he hopes that will carry over into their game Friday against the England Lady Lions, who completed the conference schedule unbeaten.
“[The Lady Lions] were our regular season conference winner, so it is going to be a tough game,” he said.
Senior Amy Schichtl led St. Joseph in scoring with 17 points. She added six rebounds. Junior Heather Moix recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. She also had four assists.
The Lady Bulldogs hit 15 of 20 from the foul line. Kordsmeier said he was pleased with the Lady Bulldogs' shooting and how well they balanced that with strong defense.
“We had good balance court-wise,” he said. “We played well on both offense and defense. We had some good stops defensively and then we shot really well. We shot about 50 percent.”
St. Joseph improved to 15-13.
The Bulldogs (20-7) will also play in Friday's district semifinals against England. Brent Bruich's team is seeded first after tying for the conference championship with Mountain Pine. They, too, will play in the regional next week.
UCA sportswriting
St. Joseph's Lady Bulldogs rallied to beat the Conway Christian Lady Eagles, 55-44 Wednesday in the 2A-5 North District Tournament at Magnet Cove.
The Lady Bulldogs move on to Friday's semifinals, but Wednesday's win clinched a berth to next week's Class 2A East Regional at Carlisle.
“I thought we played really well, and I was real proud of our effort,” coach Chris Kordsmeier said. “It was a hard-fought game by both teams and it was a good rival game against Conway Christian.”
Kordsmeier said both teams laid everything on the line since it was an elimination game and there was a lot at stake.
The Lady Bulldogs had a narrow lead going into halftime, 27-24. They came back after being outscored during the first period, 15-11. St. Joseph stayed ahead during the third period, ending the quarter with a 41-36 lead, and sealed their victory in the fourth.
Kordsmeier said he thought his team played well against the Lady Eagles, and he hopes that will carry over into their game Friday against the England Lady Lions, who completed the conference schedule unbeaten.
“[The Lady Lions] were our regular season conference winner, so it is going to be a tough game,” he said.
Senior Amy Schichtl led St. Joseph in scoring with 17 points. She added six rebounds. Junior Heather Moix recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. She also had four assists.
The Lady Bulldogs hit 15 of 20 from the foul line. Kordsmeier said he was pleased with the Lady Bulldogs' shooting and how well they balanced that with strong defense.
“We had good balance court-wise,” he said. “We played well on both offense and defense. We had some good stops defensively and then we shot really well. We shot about 50 percent.”
St. Joseph improved to 15-13.
The Bulldogs (20-7) will also play in Friday's district semifinals against England. Brent Bruich's team is seeded first after tying for the conference championship with Mountain Pine. They, too, will play in the regional next week.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Eagles end season with district tournament loss
By Chelsea Stockdale, Barry Bartoszek and Katie Davis
Basketball season ended Wednesday for Conway Christian as Abundant Life prevailed in the 2A-5 North District Tournament, 64-62.
“It was tough," Conway Christian coach Shane Davis said. "We came out really hot and got up 25-12 in the first quarter. We were hitting all cylinders.”
The disappointment came after halftime, when the Eagles held a nine-point lead. Then things took a turn for the worse for Conway Christian.
The Eagles' underclassmen were left to hold their own as seniors Caleb Stanton and Zach Johnson fouled out with five minutes to go.
“The refs took over in the fourth quarter,” Davis said. “We tied it up with 13 seconds to go with two free throws, and they scored with three seconds to go with a layup. We ran a full-court play and had it to perfection, got a 3 and short-rimmed it and it bounced off.”
Junior Ethan Ellis and sophomore Tanner Stevenson scored 17 points apiece. Junior Jacob Callaway contributed with eight points for the night.
Conway Christian ended the season 11-15.
Basketball season ended Wednesday for Conway Christian as Abundant Life prevailed in the 2A-5 North District Tournament, 64-62.
“It was tough," Conway Christian coach Shane Davis said. "We came out really hot and got up 25-12 in the first quarter. We were hitting all cylinders.”
The disappointment came after halftime, when the Eagles held a nine-point lead. Then things took a turn for the worse for Conway Christian.
The Eagles' underclassmen were left to hold their own as seniors Caleb Stanton and Zach Johnson fouled out with five minutes to go.
“The refs took over in the fourth quarter,” Davis said. “We tied it up with 13 seconds to go with two free throws, and they scored with three seconds to go with a layup. We ran a full-court play and had it to perfection, got a 3 and short-rimmed it and it bounced off.”
Junior Ethan Ellis and sophomore Tanner Stevenson scored 17 points apiece. Junior Jacob Callaway contributed with eight points for the night.
Conway Christian ended the season 11-15.
Conway Christian advances in district tournament
By Chelsea Stockdale, Barry Bartozek and Katie Davis
UCA sportswriting
Even without their leading scorer, Conway Christian's Eagles dominated Magnet Cove Tuesday night in the opening round of the 2A-5 North District Tournament at Magnet Cove, 68-46.
Senior Kirby Powell is out of the tournament for Conway Christian, but they still advanced. At the half, the Eagles held a 29-25 lead.
"We pushed for the win in the third quarter when we had a strong defense forcing the other team into hard shots then rebounding the ball to run to their hoop to make the layup," Conway Christian coach Shane Davis said.
Zach Johnson led the Eagles with 25 points. Caleb Stanton added 13 points and seven assists.
"The team is in a survive-and-advance mode," Davis said.
Conway Christian was to face Abundant Life on Wednesday. A win would put the Eagles into the district semifinals and qualify them for the regional tournament.
UCA sportswriting
Even without their leading scorer, Conway Christian's Eagles dominated Magnet Cove Tuesday night in the opening round of the 2A-5 North District Tournament at Magnet Cove, 68-46.
Senior Kirby Powell is out of the tournament for Conway Christian, but they still advanced. At the half, the Eagles held a 29-25 lead.
"We pushed for the win in the third quarter when we had a strong defense forcing the other team into hard shots then rebounding the ball to run to their hoop to make the layup," Conway Christian coach Shane Davis said.
Zach Johnson led the Eagles with 25 points. Caleb Stanton added 13 points and seven assists.
"The team is in a survive-and-advance mode," Davis said.
Conway Christian was to face Abundant Life on Wednesday. A win would put the Eagles into the district semifinals and qualify them for the regional tournament.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Lady Cats handle Bryant, 54-42
By Zach Hayes
UCA sportswriting
The Conway Lady Cats defeated the Bryant Lady Hornets on Tuesday, 54-42, at home in a 7A/6A Central conference matchup.
The final difference for the Lady Cats was 12, but with five minutes left, that lead was 21. Conway never trailed, jumping ahead and ending the first quarter, 14-5, and extending its lead at halftime, 33-19. Despite an admittedly bad stall game and hitting just four of 14 from the foul line, the Lady Cats managed a dominant victory against a quality team in Bryant.
“It was a pretty good night," Conway coach Ashley Nance said. "We couldn’t ask for much more in a game.”
Two players stole the show for Conway. Taylor Gault and Quay Allen-Smith combined for 38 of the Lady Cats' 54 points.
Gault, who has signed to play for the University of Arkansas-Little Rock, didn’t start the game because of disciplinary reasons, according Nance, but she still managed a game-high 21 points, including a four-of-four performance from the free-throw line.
She attempted only one 3-pointer after making all four from behind the line in a game last week and instead chose to attack the Lady Hornets off penetration to the basket and tough runners in the lane.
"It wasn’t really a plan," she said. "I just took it over once I got in the game."
Allen-Smith recorded a double-double, scoring 17 points and having 10-plus rebounds. Her presence was dominant in the paint, a big reason why the Lady Cats were able to create and sustain their big leads.
“She’s one of the strongest players on the team," Nance said of Allen-Smith, adding that her great head fakes forced Bryant to doubleteam her. "She was the difference maker in tonight’s game."
With just under five minutes left, Bryant pushed for a final run to cut into its 50-31 deficit behind Kiara Moore, who had left the game in the first quarter in tears after a loose-ball scramble and collision. Moore's huge steal and fast break layup, plus a made foul shot, cut Conway's lead to 50-41 with 2:33 to play, but the Lady Cats wouldn’t let it get closer than that, allowing just one more point the rest of the way.
“Basketball is a game of runs,” Lady Hornet coach Blake Condley said. “We made ours, and Conway was a good enough team to stop it and go on another one themselves.
“We were in such a deep hole, it was just hard to get out of.”
The Lady Cats play again Friday at Van Buren.
UCA sportswriting
The Conway Lady Cats defeated the Bryant Lady Hornets on Tuesday, 54-42, at home in a 7A/6A Central conference matchup.
The final difference for the Lady Cats was 12, but with five minutes left, that lead was 21. Conway never trailed, jumping ahead and ending the first quarter, 14-5, and extending its lead at halftime, 33-19. Despite an admittedly bad stall game and hitting just four of 14 from the foul line, the Lady Cats managed a dominant victory against a quality team in Bryant.
“It was a pretty good night," Conway coach Ashley Nance said. "We couldn’t ask for much more in a game.”
Two players stole the show for Conway. Taylor Gault and Quay Allen-Smith combined for 38 of the Lady Cats' 54 points.
Gault, who has signed to play for the University of Arkansas-Little Rock, didn’t start the game because of disciplinary reasons, according Nance, but she still managed a game-high 21 points, including a four-of-four performance from the free-throw line.
She attempted only one 3-pointer after making all four from behind the line in a game last week and instead chose to attack the Lady Hornets off penetration to the basket and tough runners in the lane.
"It wasn’t really a plan," she said. "I just took it over once I got in the game."
Allen-Smith recorded a double-double, scoring 17 points and having 10-plus rebounds. Her presence was dominant in the paint, a big reason why the Lady Cats were able to create and sustain their big leads.
“She’s one of the strongest players on the team," Nance said of Allen-Smith, adding that her great head fakes forced Bryant to doubleteam her. "She was the difference maker in tonight’s game."
With just under five minutes left, Bryant pushed for a final run to cut into its 50-31 deficit behind Kiara Moore, who had left the game in the first quarter in tears after a loose-ball scramble and collision. Moore's huge steal and fast break layup, plus a made foul shot, cut Conway's lead to 50-41 with 2:33 to play, but the Lady Cats wouldn’t let it get closer than that, allowing just one more point the rest of the way.
“Basketball is a game of runs,” Lady Hornet coach Blake Condley said. “We made ours, and Conway was a good enough team to stop it and go on another one themselves.
“We were in such a deep hole, it was just hard to get out of.”
The Lady Cats play again Friday at Van Buren.
Wampus Cats knock off Bryant
By Hunter Brooks
UCA sportswriting
The Conway Wampus Cats beat the Bryant Hornets Tuesday night, 67-31, at Buzz Bolding Arena in Conway.
Conway controlled the game from the tip, going on a 16-0 run that included a dunk by senior Colt Fason that brought the home crowd to its feet. Bryant didn’t make a basket in the first quarter, recording only two free throws.
Conway coach James Bates was pleased with the quick start.
“Our defense was great tonight,” Bates said. “We got beat in Cabot Saturday and didn’t shoot well, so we wanted to come out strong tonight. I don’t think Bryant had a shot attempt in their first five or six possessions. That’s huge because we like to turn defense into offense. When we do that, that’s when we’re at our best.”
The Wampus Cats had eight players score, led by sophomore Tim Boyd with 17 points. Fason added 15, sitting much of the game with foul trouble, while senior TeShawn Sims recorded 12.
“The team does good at filling the holes when things like this happen,” Fason said about having to be benched. “Tim shot the ball well tonight, and the team really stepped up.”
Bryant’s first basket didn’t come until the 6:46 mark of the second quarter. Additionally, the Hornets turned the ball over 22 times.
“We seemed to be three steps behind everything tonight,” Bryant coach Mike Abrahamson said. “After having a tough game yesterday against Van Buren, we just didn’t have anything left. But Conway deserves all the credit for tonight. They’re the much better team.”
The Hornets were also held scoreless for the final 6:51. Junior Brantley Cozart led the Hornets with 12 points, followed by junior Quinten Motto with 10.
The Wampus Cats will travel Friday to take on the Van Buren Pointers. Tip-off is set for 7:30 P.M.
UCA sportswriting
The Conway Wampus Cats beat the Bryant Hornets Tuesday night, 67-31, at Buzz Bolding Arena in Conway.
Conway controlled the game from the tip, going on a 16-0 run that included a dunk by senior Colt Fason that brought the home crowd to its feet. Bryant didn’t make a basket in the first quarter, recording only two free throws.
Conway coach James Bates was pleased with the quick start.
“Our defense was great tonight,” Bates said. “We got beat in Cabot Saturday and didn’t shoot well, so we wanted to come out strong tonight. I don’t think Bryant had a shot attempt in their first five or six possessions. That’s huge because we like to turn defense into offense. When we do that, that’s when we’re at our best.”
The Wampus Cats had eight players score, led by sophomore Tim Boyd with 17 points. Fason added 15, sitting much of the game with foul trouble, while senior TeShawn Sims recorded 12.
“The team does good at filling the holes when things like this happen,” Fason said about having to be benched. “Tim shot the ball well tonight, and the team really stepped up.”
Bryant’s first basket didn’t come until the 6:46 mark of the second quarter. Additionally, the Hornets turned the ball over 22 times.
“We seemed to be three steps behind everything tonight,” Bryant coach Mike Abrahamson said. “After having a tough game yesterday against Van Buren, we just didn’t have anything left. But Conway deserves all the credit for tonight. They’re the much better team.”
The Hornets were also held scoreless for the final 6:51. Junior Brantley Cozart led the Hornets with 12 points, followed by junior Quinten Motto with 10.
The Wampus Cats will travel Friday to take on the Van Buren Pointers. Tip-off is set for 7:30 P.M.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
