The Assumption Lions advance after easily defeating Paris in the Brant County senior girls basketball quarter-finals on Tuesday.The semifinals are set for Thursday when Assumption will take on St. John's.
"We played well," Lions coach Rick Baldin said after his team's 50-15 win over Paris.
"What is most important is that we play more consistent basketball. We need to communicate more and read the game more."
The Lions came out strong in the first half, putting up 10 points in the first quarter, while the Panthers remained scoreless.
By half-time, Paris was on the board with seven points, with the Lions at 29.
Assumption guard Paula Bejarano said she feels prepared for Thursday's match against undefeated St. John's.
"Lions never give up," she said. "I believe in my team."
Baldin, who noted that Assumption has a young team with only a couple of Grade 12 players, said the Lions need to play a more competitive game in order to take on St. John's.
"They're a very tough team. Consistency is the key for us."
Panthers coach Dani Hawkins said that, despite the loss, her team played a decent game.
"What we did well was adjust as Assumption kept switching defences. It's the first time we've done that successfully this season. But we missed a lot of easy shots and that's frustrating."
Paris will play Pauline Johnson on Thursday, with the winner advancing to CWOSSA AA.
"I think that will be a very competitive match," said Hawkins.
Assumption's leading scorers in Tuesday's game were Kayla Gaucher, Atalanta Crosby and Chelsea Murray, each with seven points.
Baldin said Lauren Snider, Paula Bejarano and Pamela Bejarano also played strong games.
Leading scorers for Paris were Suzanne Kelly, 6, Avery Hamill, 4, and Sarah Pfeiffer, 3.
