The Destrehan Lady Wildcats stretched their win streak to 14 games with a dominating 74-31 win over rival Hahnville.
Destrehan (17-1, 4-0) took control early on their way to the lopsided win and the team’s starters spent almost all of the fourth quarter on the bench.
“This was a game where everyone was allowed to play. We really enjoy these games because all girls get a chance to be on the court,” Butler said. “The girls were able to run through a variety of plays that we have been focusing on during practice over the past week in order to improve our game.”
The Lady Wildcats were led in scoring by Jordan Dabney, Jasmine Morris and Bailee Lipps, who each finished with 11 points. Butler said that playing in front of a packed gym energized her players throughout the rivalry game.
“Hahnville is always a fun game to play because the crowd is such a large one and the fans are so passionate about the teams they are there to support,” she said. “The girls were excited to get the chance to play in a gym that had a packed house. It helps prepare them for what it’s going to be like during our playoff games.”
Butler said that her squad has focused on improving defensively and the hard work seems to have paid off after Destrehan forced 27 Hahnville turnovers.
“We have really been focusing on our defense because the teams we will face in the playoffs are going to be tough. We have to be sound defensively in order to make it to the final four,” she said. “Defense wins championships and we understand what it takes to reach the goals we have set for our team this season.”
Along with her team’s improved defensive play, Butler said the Lady Wildcats are playing more as a team and their transitions are getting smother.
“We are also becoming more consistent on turning our fast breaks into easy points,” she said.
However, Butler would like to see the squad get better in rebounding while making crisper passes.
“We get so excited on the fast break and the transitions that gaining control when we get to the paint is an area we are still working on,” she said.
Hahnville head coach Phillip Bychurch felt his team played well against Destrehan but added that the Lady Tigers had too many turnovers and did not finish on the offensive end. He also had issues with his team’s defensive play and their free throw shooting.
“We have to be patient and keep the ball moving for a good shot at the basket,” he said.
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