Republic coach Kris Flood wanted a fast start for his team against underdog Carthage, and he got it –– but not until the start of the third quarter. Republic overcame a sluggish first half by bolting to a big lead early in the third quarter on the way to a 51-34 win against Carthage in the district semifinals. The Lady Tigers opened the second half with a 15-2 run to grow a six-point halftime lead to 19 points.
Republic had beaten Carthage by 27 points in Republic during the Regular season, but Monday night, Carthage stayed close throughout the first 16 minutes. Republic led 10-8 at the end of the first quarter and pushed the lead to eight points before Carthage scored to end the half, making the score 20-14 at the midway point.
“We didn’t come out with very much intensity,” Flood said. “We were real sloppy with the ball, especially in the first half. We got fortunate. As you keep advancing here, it’s going to get tougher. Hopefully they realize they’ve got to play better.”
Kaemyn Bekemeier led Republic with 20 points and Savana Powell-Goodman added 11 for Republic. They combined for 11 of Republic’s 15 points in the third quarter, helping the Lady Tigers get separation from upset-minded Carthage. Republic’s full-court pressure, which didn’t cause Carthage many problems in the first half, geared up after halftime and forced several Carthage turnovers, which Republic turned into easy baskets.
Carthage ends its season at 12-14. Republic improves to 18-9 and will play Willard for the district championship Thursday night. Willard beat Joplin 61-38 to advance to the championship game. Willard won the meeting between the two teams during the regular season.
Republic will be playing for its fifth district championship in six seasons since moving to Class 5.
Republic scoring: Kaemyn Bekemeier 20, Savana Powell-Goodman 11, Jade Kirby 7, Jazzy Kirby 7, Kaitlyn Ragsdale 4, Carle Ward 2
