8th Girls – Both Itasca’s Girls and Italy’s “Honey’s of the Hardwood” came out playing like they each had something to prove. The relentless Italy squad seemed to have the upperhand as Italy hustled into halftime with a 14-11 lead.

Italy started shining the glass in the 3rd as their shots were dropping with more frequency. Itasca’s defense was breaking down as Italy had a 20-13 lead at the 3:38 mark in the 3rd period.

Italy’s #21 Chante Birdsong, #10 Brianna Perry, #2 Paola Mata, #24 Alyssa Richards and #40 Katie Byers all scored in the period. In fact, Italy scored 14-points in the period shooting their way to a 28-17 lead heading into the 4th period.

Italy’s Perry scored at the 5:10 mark followed by a basket by Mata at the 4:52 mark. Italy’s lead was 32-17 when Birdsong fouled out at the 4:47 mark. Itasca couldn’t take advantage and Mata hit again with 3:48 to go, Italy leads 34-17.

Itasca rallied late in the period scoring the last 8-points. The damage was done, however, and Italy’s 8th Grade Lady Gladiators held on for a 34-25 win over the Itasca Lady Wampus Cats.

In doing so, Italy’s 8th Grade Girls keep their undefeated record in tact. The Italy 8th Grade Girls play their final game Monday night against Dallas Faith Family in Dallas as they try to cap-off the perfect season!