Lady Wildcats rally for win, look ahead

Trailing for most of the contest, AHS (4-4 overall) battled back and with approximately four minutes left, Parks told his team to hold the basketball and make Archer come out and guard the Lady Wildcats.

“They started fouling and we stepped to the line and made our free throws,” Parks said. “We looked like a college team. It was the way you are supposed to play ball control basketball. Mentally, that was huge for us. It shows how far we’ve come in a year. It was an outstanding way to finish the game and get the win.”

Aliya Ballard had a huge performance for AHS with 14 points, 11 assists and 12 steals. She also helped direct the stall late in the game.

The win Saturday helped overcome the sting of an overtime loss to Cedar Shoals Friday.

The Lady Cats fell 44-42 despite leading by seven points at halftime. Cedar Shoals did not hold an advantage until a 31-30 lead.

“To be able to come back Saturday after a loss like we had Friday does say a lot,” Parks said. “From one day to the next, we learned a lot. That is a good sign. We just have to keep working, keep battling.”