Lady Gladiators hoop it out with Kemp then end tourney with win over Hillsboro
Tara Wallis(4) tries her luck at a free-throw as teammate Taleyia Wilson(22) watches the flight of the ball during a Italy’s second tournament game against Kemp. (Barry Byers)
Italy — The Lady Gladiators find themselves locked in a fight to the finish against Kemp during their second game of an Italy hosted basketball tournament on Friday.
The two teams matched inside George E. Scott Gymnasium and were deadlocked at 16-16 before Kemp lead 18-16 at intermission.
With under 5:00 to play in the third-quarter, the game was knotted again at 20-20 after a pair of free-throws by Italy’s center, Jaclynn Lewis. guards Kendra Copeland, Tara Wallis and Ryisha Copeland played well in this one while teammate Kortnei Johnson attacked the rim relentlessly to keep pressure on Kemp.
Also having a big game for Italy was hard-working post player Taleyia Wilson who does whatever she can to help Italy get points on the board. Monserrat Figueroa, Halee Turner, Bernice Hailey and Oleshia Anderson provided important minutes, as well. The game continues to stay close until the end but Kemp executes a couple of late breakaway baskets to survive for the 32-29 win.
Despite the loss, Italy realized their ability to be a scrappy and aggressive defensive bunch which ultimately helped the Lady Gladiators defeat Hillsboro 61-44 in Italy’s final game of the tournament.