K&Q no problem for CC

Jumping out to an early 11-1 lead, Charles City’s Lady Panthers never encountered a serious challenge from King & Queen’s visiting Tigers as they romped to an easy 74-32 non-district basketball victory.

The Dec. 19 decision gave Charles City a 5-2 record heading into the new year.

“I think we’re better than what most people expected,” said Lady Panther coach Andre Jones, pointing to the loss of high-scoring forward Deborah Smith who transferred to another school.

“We’re just not getting as much offense, but on defense we’re a real good team,” he said.

His Lady Panthers didn’t need a whole lot of either in disposing of the Tigers for the second time this season. After the 11-1 burst to open the game, the hosts weathered a mild challenge from the visitors before putting the game out of reach before halftime.

King & Queen recovered enough from Charles City’s opening salvo to close within six at 14-8 heading into the second quarter. But the hosts answered with a 7-0 run to start quarter two and create breathing room.

Shana Braxton triggered the run, scoring off a Jolisa Williams assist. Williams dished out another assist, this time to Shana Brown who was fouled on the shot. Brown completed a three-point play, and seconds later, added a lay-in at the end of a fast break for a 21-8 lead.

King & Queen called time out, seeking to stall Charles City’s momentum, but the Tigers had no answer. By the break, the hosts were firmly in control with a 34-13 lead.

Everyone on the Lady Panther roster got into the scoring act. Three finished in double figures led by Williams’ game-high 25 points. Brown finished with 14 while Braxton ended with 13.

Ebony Coles scored five followed by four each from Stormie Adkins, Amanda Adkins, and Shaunte Williams, two apiece from Carolyn Craddock and Joy Wynn and Dawn Hicks’ one.

Ciara King’s 13 points topped King & Queen.