YORKTOWN – Senior guard Ahniyah Bennett scored a game-high 20 points Tuesday night to lead the Connersville Lady Spartans to a 50–30 victory over Hamilton Heights in the opening round of Sectional 24.

The win marks a significant 26-point turnaround for the Spartans, who previously lost to the Huskies by three points during the regular season. Connersville (16–7) established control early, holding a 23–13 lead at the half, and never allowed the margin to slip into single digits during the final two frames.

Inside the Box Score

Bennett’s offensive output included three makes from beyond the arc, but she wasn’t the only Spartan in double figures. Kendyl Bottomley provided a consistent interior presence, finishing with 13 points and going 5-of-5 from the free-throw line. Serenity Pennington added 10 points, including two three-pointers, to round out the double-digit scorers.

The Spartans’ discipline was the statistical story of the night. The team committed just eight turnovers across 32 minutes of play while shooting a collective 90.9% from the charity stripe.

Defensive Stifle

On the defensive end, Connersville effectively neutralized the Huskies’ perimeter threats. Hamilton Heights was held to just 9% shooting from three-point range (1-of-11) and 34% from the field overall. The Spartans also controlled the glass, out-rebounding the Huskies 29–18.

Addy Jones contributed five points and defensive pressure, while Kinze Van Meter added two points and anchored a baseline defense that limited Hamilton Heights to just 17 points through the first three quarters.

Semi-Final Preview

The Spartans advance to the sectional semi-finals this Friday, Feb. 6, at the Yorktown Fieldhouse. They are scheduled to face the host Yorktown Tigers in the nightcap at approximately 7:30 PM. The winner will advance to Saturday’s championship game.

Reporter’s Notebook

• Connersville Scoring: Bennett 20, Bottomley 13, Pennington 10, Jones 5, Van Meter 2.
• Effort Stats: Spartans 11-of-21 (52%) from 2PT range; 6-of-26 (23%) from 3PT.
• Opponent: Riley Suarez led Hamilton Heights with 18 points.

About the Author

Whitewater Valley Voice

Administrator

Visit Website View All Posts