Braves bounce on toward undefeated season

The Williams High girls basketball knew when they came to Hamilton City they'd be in for a fight when taking on the Lady Braves, a veteran team with many wins under their belt. Hamilton did not fail to continue their impressive run this season, and dominated the Yellowjackets from the beginning to grab a 63-20 win.

Williams coach Gary Cranford had only positives to say for his team and their effort, saying, "They're a young team, but they work hard. The good news is that there is always room for improvement, and we are always improving." He added, "The girls never gave up, even when they knew they would be playing such a tough team."

The Braves, who started their traditional first team, worked the Williams side hard from the beginning, and jumped to a huge lead in the first quarter.

Hamilton was able to slow the game down and run its set plays, and Audra Jones' 14 points was high on the night.

Aubrey Bekendam was in her regular form and helped lead the team, dishing the ball while also taking it into the paint many times during the game and racking up 12 points. 

The Yellowjackets excelled at getting to rebounds, often getting above the taller Braves, but found the task of taking the rebound to the basket for the score the more difficult aspect, and Hamilton was able to take the 40-15 lead going into halftime.

During the break, Hamilton players could be seen working on their skills, a testament to their work ethic. Karlene Shippelhoute had an outstanding third and fourth quarter coming off the bench, while nailing a move that she had practiced with Jones during the break. Shippelhoute finished with seven points. As the third quarter progressed, more second-team players came in impressed, a fact that only adds to the reason why Hamilton has done so well.

Unfortunately the hard work and hustle of Williams, particularly Elizabeth Rivera and Emilee Cranford, was not enough, and the Braves held the visiting team scoreless in the third.

As the matchup drew to a close, Williams scored their most points in the fourth and kept on trucking. You couldn't help but notice the diligence of the Yellowjackets and the Braves, who both played until the last seconds. Cranford ended the game with six points, while Elizabeth Mendez tacked on five.

Hamilton coach Mark Priano praised the consistent play of his team, saying, "We come out to win no matter the other team. The goal is that every game we play, no matter the team, it is a learning experience. We take something away that is positive while also respecting the game and the other team. The girls did great tonight."

Williams faced off against Esparto on Friday night at home.

Hamilton traveled to Quincy on Friday.

CONTACT Emily Saint-Evens at 824-1036 or cpurcell@tcnpress.com.