JACKSON COUNTY just continues to win.
The resurgent Lady Panther basketball team (10-13, 7-3) scored another major victory Tuesday night with a 43-40 home win over Elbert County, which started the night in second place in Region 8-AA South.
The victory moves Jackson County into a half-game lead over the Lady Blue Devils (13-9) for second-place in Region 8-AA South. Elbert County is now 6-3 in subregion play. The two teams are tied in the loss column. With Jackson County’s win Tuesday, the Lady Panthers and Lady Blue Devils have split the season series.
Lady Panther coach John Hawley summed up Jackson County’s victory: “Great team defense and outstanding will and hustle,” he said.
Katie Phillips led Jackson County with 14 points and seven boards while Danni Cunningham registered another double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.
Victoria Fontana added nine points.
Jackson County led 20-18 at halftime and 30-28 after three quarters in picking up the victory. The win avenged a 53-38 loss to the Lady Blue Devils back on Jan. 6.
The Lady Panthers have now won seven of their last nine games and five of their last seven in subregion action.
Jackson County has just regular season opponents remaining — East Jackson (Friday) and Jefferson (Feb. 10) — as it fights for the no. 2 seed in Region 8-AA South.
