Jackson County regained its form just as the holidays ended by winning two of three at Oconee tournament. The Lady Panthers closed out the event Thursday with a 50-47 win over East Paulding.
“The girls played much harder and together today (Thursday),” coach John Hawley said. “As a team we made some great defensive adjustments at half and we had a good balanced scoring attach from all the ladies.”
Victoria Fontana led Jackson County with 19 points and three steals.
“She’s starting to shoot the ball a little more consistently,” Hawley said.
Katie Phillips added nine points and five rebounds while Danni Cunningham contributed eight points and 12 boards.
Jackson County led 29-24 but allowed East Paulding’s top post players to score 21 points in the first half. But that’s when the Lady Panthers made their defensive adjustments.
“We were able to shut her down,” Hawley said.
Jackson County downed Athens Christian 48-41 the day before behind a season-high 21 points from Fontana. The Lady Panthers dominated the first three quarters, leading 40-22 before the Lady Eagles cut into the lead during the fourth.
Cunningham added seven points and 10 rebounds.
Hawley said the tournament provided some valuable on-court experience prior to a tough subregion slate in January and February.
“That’s why we like to play (these tournaments), to get back and play and have a chance to work on some things,” he said.
