The Quitman Lady Bulldogs suffered through a cold shooting hand in the second period of last Tuesday’s Quitman/Mineola game. As they came out for the second half, Quitman was down by eight points, but was buoyed by the knowledge that shots would start to fall when action resumed. 

That is when the Lady Jacket defense took the game away.

Mineola’s Caroline Castleberry took a hard charge in the opening minute of the second half, which set the tone for the rest of the game.A

Mineola used a hounding man-to-man defense to turn the game in the third period. While Quitman could generate shots in the first half with their perimeter-motion offense, in the second half, Mineola took away practically all shooting windows, making their way clear to an eventual 47-34 Mineola win.

Likely the most improved aspect of the Lady Jackets’ play this season has been the ability to convert turnovers to points. The finishing game of the Lady Jackets has clearly been an area of focus this season. They are cashing in on opportunities, whether that be a turnover in the backcourt or pushing a defensive rebound aggressively up the floor.

Their success in converting opportunities to points is amplified by the second most obvious area of improvement this season: offensive rebounding.  Freshman Canyon Redding has excelled at positioning for the offensive boards. Positioning and strength have made her an offensive-rebounding specialist. 

The Lady Bulldogs, who came to Mineola also undefeated in district play, have a complete team. They are quick, strong and well-practiced.  Despite the chilling effect of the Mineola defense in the second half, the Lady Bulldogs made a late run which closed the final margin. 

A jump shot by Redding in the lane, and a score from Kaitlyn McMahon down the stretch, ensured that the win was never in serious danger.

For Mineola, Mahayla McMahon and Redding scored in double figures, 14 and 11 points respectively. Each Lady Jacket contributed to an inspired defensive effort.

The Lady Bulldogs were led by Addison Sapp, who notched 14 points and provided excellent on-court leadership.  

The two teams will face each other again on Friday, Feb. 6, at Quitman’s Ballard Gymnasium. The rematch should not be missed by local basketball fans.