PHILIPPI, W.Va. — Philip Barbour built a double-digit lead late in the first quarter and maintained that margin the rest of the way in a 63-50 win over Robert C. Byrd in a regional rematch from last March.
The Colts, last year’s Class AAA state runners-up, improved to 4-0 on the season. PB made ten 3-point field goals and accelerated the pace of play with their pressure defense.
“We try to get easy layups and we shoot a bunch of 3’s. We make our fair share but we miss our fair share too,” said Philip Barbour head coach Rick Mouser.
“The way we play, we turn it over and we force turnovers. We like to get up and go.”
The Colts scored the final ten points of the first quarter to take a 20-8 lead. Senior guard LaDonna Herron connected on four of her six triples in the first half. She led all scorers with 18 points.
“She has the green light. I told the girls at halftime that she shot that one from Kasson. When she gets hot, she can shoot them.”
A 12-0 run for the Colts between the third and fourth quarters extended their lead to a game-high 24 points at 57-33.
Senior Braylyn Sparks added 11 points for the Colts. A trio of freshmen, Elizabeth Knotts, Finley Carpenter and Rylee Bodkins combined to score 24 points.
“I am happy with all the freshmen. They are getting a lot of time. I have five of them dressing varsity and four of them are playing big minutes and are getting better everyday,” Mouser said.
“I think last year we started out 1-3 or 1-4. We’re very happy to be in the situation we’re in right now.”
Carleigh Curotz and Martina Howe each scored 16 points to lead the Flying Eagles (1-1).