Republic used a smothering zone defense to hold Lee’s Summit West to just five first-half points as the Lady Tigers rolled to a 54-21 win at home Saturday. Republic forced 13 turnovers in the first half and held the Titans to just 20% shooting from the floor (7-of-35) for the game. It was the second straight blowout win over a team from the Kansas City area, after Republic throttled Blue Springs Friday night.
“I was very pleased with the weekend,” says coach Kris Flood. “I was very pleased with our effort today defensively. It was probably the best our zone had looked. We scouted them a little bit and knew if we were matching up with them, they like to dribble penetrate. I just thought we could do a better job (with zone) as far as keeping them in front and containing them. The kids did an excellent job in the first half… and really set the tone there by just holding them to five points.”
Republic led 15-2 after the first quarter and 29-5 at halftime. Nine different players scored for Republic, led by Jordan Kabetske with 13. Brooke Stanfield and Brylee Argo each scored 11. Taylor Fergen had five. Alexis Ladwig scored four. Jade Sawyer and Madi Appleberry each scored three. Allyson Barrett and Carly Bayans added two each.
Republic made seven of 15 three-point attempts on the day. They shot 53% from the floor overall, and were 9-of-13 from the free throw line. In their two games against Kansas City-area opponents this weekend, Republic made 17 three-pointers.
Republic improves to 11-1 overall. The Lady Tigers will open up conference play on the road at Carthage Monday.
