After a frustrating 0-4 start to the 2022-23 season against a brutal slate (four opponents with combined 19-4 record), the Boone Central Lady Cardinals flew past visiting Twin River 54-29 Tuesday, Dec. 13.
The “feel good” win was sparked by torrid defense and timely shooting in the first half. Boone blanked the Titans in the first quarter and took an 11-0 lead with Karlie Wies and Tristan Hooker sinking 3-point shots. Hooker added two more in the second period, and Wies one, as the Cards built their advantage to 25-5 by intermission.
“We had a good start,” Boone Central Coach Andy Imus acknowledged. “Karlie and Tristan did a good job hitting their open shots. That was a major point we’ve discussed, as we need to hit outside shots to hopefully open up the inside more.”
Boone was sluggish in the third quarter, as Twin River cut the margin to 31-20, but finished with a 23-9 blitz in the final stanza.
“We need to continue to strive for consistency and not get caught in the ebbs and flows of the game,” Imus added.
“We shot much better, ran some full court pressure (defense) and played at a much higher pace. We will continue to strive for pace and tempo as we move forward, hoping that jump starts our offensive production.”
Boone’s shooting percentages – 30% of 2-point shots, 28% on 3-pointers, 30% free throws – were still subpar, but the Cardinals held Twin River to less than 30% (8-of-44 overall) in the win. The Cardinals snared 21 offensive rebounds, outscored Twin River 26-2 in the painted area, made 20 steals and forced 27 turnovers.
Further details and stats in Print & Online editions of Albion News/Boone County Tribune
