The Assumption College Lions defeated the North Park Collegiate Trojans 46-39 in their home-opener Thursday night, kicking off the Brant senior girls high school basketball league.
The Lions took a comfortable lead in the first half, which proved enough to withstand a late game push by the Trojans.
Assumption College's shooting proficiency and superior ball-movement was key in establishing their early lead, which was never really in jeopardy until late in the game.
While the Lions hit five three-pointers before the end of the first half, North Park struggled early on, scoring only one point in the second quarter-a free throw from Jessica Grant with 1:15 remaining.
At the half the score was Lions 26, Trojans 12.
Both teams looked sharp in the third quarter, while continuing to play tough and aggressive defence, hitting the floor for loose balls and drawing strong fouls.
The Trojans started to close the gap in the fourth quarter behind some steady and accurate free throw shooting, but the margin was too much to overcome.
Assumption College coach Rick Heron was pleased with his team's performance early in the game.
"I was very surprised how fast we came out and how well we played so early in the season. The girls really wanted it tonight. I was very impressed," he said.
Heron credits their opening lead to good ball movement, which helped in getting open looks at the basket.
With regards to the fourth quarter, he says his team will have to learn to play better with a lead if they want to have success going forward.
"I told them we played three quarters very well. The last quarter is a game situation, and that's what they have to learn. We have to play a complete game."
Abby Heron led the Lions in scoring with 14 points. While Jerika Baldin added 12, nine of her points coming from behind the arc.
Two bright spots for the Trojans were the play of Laura Chapple and Jessica Grant, who on the night had 19 and 7 points respectively.
"(This game) opened our eyes for the season," said Chapple. "We know it's going to be a battle every game. We're preparing for it... This county is always a battle."
North Park Collegiate coach Andrea Hawkins said she was surprised by how well Assumption College started the game.
"They're good. They're athletic. They defended very well and they shot the ball very well," Hawkins said.
With regards to her team's performance, Hawkins said, "We played scared. Scoring one point in the second quarter doesn't win you basketball games. But you know, we dug deep in the end and we battled hard."
"St-John's (College) and (Assumption College) are going to battle as well." Hawkins added. "Between the three of us, it's going to be an interesting season."
SENIOR GIRLS
Brantford Collegiate Institute defeated Paris District High-School 50-9. BCI outstanding players: Rachel Adkins (16), Meghan Melling (12), Taylor Zinger (8). Paris outstanding players: Hayley Parker(3), Kenzie Coombe (3), Emma Pierce (2)
St. John's College defeated Pauline Johnson Collegiate 61-16. Outstanding players: Shaina McDonald (16), Katie Polischuk (12), Miranda Consorti (10). PJ scorers not reported.
JUNIOR GIRLS
St. John's College defeated Pauline Johnson Collegiate 57-15. Scorers not reported
Brantford Collegiate Institute defeated Paris District High-School 48-18. BCI outstanding players: Victoria Waud (15), Lexis Lancaster (9), Jenna Schonbacher (8). Paris scorers not reported.
North Park Collegiate defeated Assumption College 39-22. NPC leading scorer: Abbey Johnston (12). Assumption leading scorer: Nicole Shea (8).
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