Marmaton Valley High’s girls found the right mindset in a big way Thursday.
After dropping their War on 54 Tournament opener to Cherryvale Tuesday, Marmaton Valley scored the game’s first 23 points against Yates Center.
“We were relaxed, but intense,” MV head coach Becky Carlson said of Marmaton Valley’s 51-14 win.
The victory put the Wildcats in the fifth-place game Friday against Three Rivers League rival Crest, which defeated St. Paul in its side of the bracket. Yates Center takes on St. Paul in the seventh-place game.
“We played really good defense,” Carlson said. “They didn’t get many good looks at the basket. And we ran our offense well, and we filled the passing lanes.”
Maria Forero made her presence known for the victors, hitting several outside shots on the way to a game-high 17 points.
Janae Granere wasn’t far behind, scoring 15. Piper Barney and Payton Scharff added seven apiece.
“Maria did very well,” Carlson said. “We’ve needed somebody who can shoot the 3 besides just Janae.”
Yates Center head coach said his young squad’s goal is to become like Marmaton Valley.
“They have three seniors and two juniors, and they’re all really talented, and they know what they’re doing,” Brown said. “That’s where we want to be. That’s what we’re building toward.”
Yates Center upped its defensive game in the second quarter, and trailed 30-4 at the break and 47-11 after three.
“We’re getting better,” Brown said. “It’s hard to see when you’re playing good teams like that. But the girls haven’t given up, and they play hard. If your best players don’t buy in, then you’re in trouble. And our girls have bought in.”
Regular season action resumes Tuesday for both schools. Marmaton Valley hosts Pleasanton. Yates Center travels to Chetopa.
MV (21-9-17-4—51)
FG/3pt FT F TP
