Athens' girls cruise past Lee County

RALEIGH — The Athens Drive women's basketball team jumped out to a huge lead, and hung on for an even more sizable win in the first round of the Tri-Eight girls' basketball tournament.

Senior Alyx Ingram led all scorers with 18 points as the Lady Jaguars won 71-35.

It was the response head coach Chris Danehower wanted to see after losing the season finale to Green Hope last Friday.

"We really came out aggressive. One of our starters was sick tonight so she wasn't able to play, but everybody did what they were supposed to do," Danehower said. "We stayed aggressive, we came out, we took care the ball, we aggressively attacked the goal and we rebounded, which was a problem for us Friday night."

Ingram, who has signed to play for Belmont Abbey next year, knocked down three 3-pointers on the night.

"She really stepped it up and that's what we need her to do. We need her to be a leader out there on the floor by her actions, stay positive and keep playing," Danehower said. "Her jump shot was looking good and that's what we need."

Athens will play Green Hope tomorrow in the quarterfinals at Middle Creek High. Green Hope finished off Fuquay-Varina by the 64-32 score.