Lebanon girls emerge with win

In a back-and-forth contest which saw both teams commit a number of turnovers, the Devilettes of Lebanon came out ahead when it counted to defeat Warren County 56-45 Friday at Campbell Brandon Gymnasium/Hester Gibbs Court.
The Lady Pioneers struggled on the defensive side of the ball in the closing minutes, which helped Lebanon widen a slim lead with under two minutes remaining.
"We never seemed to get any type of rhythm," Devilette coach Darian Brown said after improving to 7-12 overall and 3-3 in District 7-AAA. "There was a lot of frustration."
Despite the lack of rhythm, Lebanon only trailed briefly in the contest. The Lady Pioneers held the lead at the end of the first quarter 15-14 after completing a 7-0 run in the final three minutes.
Momentum swung in Lebanon's favor thanks to the effort of the second team.
"Our second group got us going in the first half, that was a big pick-me-up," Brown noted.
Kelsey Blackburn, Shay Coggins and Dee Kendall mounted a 9-0 run to open the second quarter and give the Devilettes the lead for good.
Lebanon maintained a six-point advantage in the third period, leading 44-38.
Crystal Howse led the way, scoring 17 points for Lebanon. Ebony Marshall tossed in 11 points, Blackburn nine, Kim Ha and Jasmin Brooks five each, Icelyn Elie and Kendall put in four apiece and Coggins a free throw.
Brittany Frazier had 15 points for Warren County and teammate Tessa King added 13.
Lebanon will stay at home and in the district Tuesday when the Devilettes welcome Siegel to Brandon Gym/Gibbs Court for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff.
Staff Writer Kimberly Jordan can be reached at 444-3952 ext. 16 or by email at kimberly.jordan@lebanondemocrat.com.