Surry County decimates Lady Panthers in basketball season opener

Charles City’s Jaela Smith (11) attempts to drive to the basket around the pressure defense from Surry County’s Anaiyah Johns (5).

Robb Johnson photo

Last year, Charles City’s Lady Panthers easily disposed of the Surry County Lady Cougars in their only meeting of the regular season. But with a group of girls who went undefeated at the JV level now playing varsity level competition, Charles City’s Lady Panthers quickly learned that this rendition of the Surry County Lady Cougars is a different squad.

The visiting Lady Cougars drubbed the homestanding Lady Panthers 59-16 in the basketball season opener for both teams.

Jaela Smith’s basket for the Lady Panthers tied the game at two apiece in the early stages of the contest. But from there, it would be Surry County who pushed the pedal to the floor.

Makayie Drew scored 10 points during a 17-2 run to end the first quarter for Surry County. In the second quarter, she tossed in 10 more for the Lady Cougars, stretching the lead out for the guest. It would be a free throw from Smith and two from Sha’Ryan Paige to account for the lone points for the hosts in the second stanza as they trailed 33-7 heading into the break.

The visitors emerged from the break on a 6-0 run, utilizing defense and forcing the Lady Panthers into unforced errors. From that point, Surry County outscored Charles City 26-9 for the remainder of the contest, triggering a running clock as time expired.

Charles City (0-1) coaches declined to comment after the game. Smith’s 12 points were the team high for the Lady Panthers, with Sha’Ryan Paige contributing two points and Jamesha Paige adding two.