Shooting struggles hamper Highlands in loss

PHOTO: Allen Ramsey, DWCPhoto.com. Highlands senior McKenzie Leigh (31) blocks a shot from Holy Cross senior forward Morgan Gabbard (15) Tuesday.

The Highlands Ladybirds basketball team had not played in eight days.

Not that the Ladybirds would use it as an excuse, but it didn't help them in their shooting slump Tuesday in a home loss to the defending state champions. The Holy Cross Lady Indians (12-7 overall) handed the Ladybirds (13-5) a 43-36 defeat. Highlands has lost two in a row and dropped to 1-3 on the season against teams from the 35th District.

The Ladybirds made just 11-of-45 shots for 24 percent including 4-of-18 from three-point range for 22 percent. Lauren Epperson came off the bench to lead Highlands with 10 points and Haley Coffey scored nine in her return from injury. Ladybird freshman Chloe Jansen was not available for the game leaving Highlands still not completely healthy.

On the other side, Holy Cross made 16-of-39 shots for 41 percent including 6-of-11 from three-point range. Dajah McClendon led the Lady Indians with nine points.

Both teams received about the same amount of free throws. Highlands has 12 fouls compared to 10 for Holy Cross. Highlands made 10-of-11 for 91 percent and Holy Cross hit 5-of-10 for 50 percent.

Highlands travels to Mason County (16-2) on Thursday to battle the defending 10th Region champions. Game time is 7:30 p.m.