In Feb. 5 Issue
By Derek Aaron
Times Journal Sports Editor

The Russell County Lady Lakers fell to the host Lady Rebels of Casey County on Monday night in Liberty, 66-34.

Russell County is now 11-7 on the season and currently has a five-game losing streak. LeeAnn Grider was the lone Lady Laker in double figures with 10 points.

“We played with much more energy and effort,” said Coach Craig Pippen. “However, we did a poor job taking care of the basketball. We will continue to work on attacking pressure and playing better defense.”

Pippen said he believes Casey County to be an outstanding team.

“I think they are the team to beat in the 12th region,” he said. “Even though we lost the game, I think we got better.”

Pippen said he likes where his team is right now and that his players continue to work hard to get better each day in practice.

“Our team understands that we want to be at our best for the district tournament,” he said.

“They have stayed positive and continue to strive to improve. That’s all I can ask from this group.”

He said he knew the team would hit some bumps in the road due to their inexperience.

“Now we have to compete daily in practice and prepare for the remainder of the season,” he said.

Both Amanda Cooper and Heather Burton had five point apiece while both Blair Hoover and Kyla Thomas had four points. Thomas also had two blocks.

Julie Wethington scored three points while Ines Stricker scored one point in the game.

The Lady Lakers shot 37 percent from the field for the game while Casey County shot right at 50 percent.

Casey County had four players in double figures and was led in scoring by Kayla McFarland with 17 points.

“I don’t believe in moral victories, however, when we do lose, I would like to feel like we took a step forward in terms of team improvement.”