Storm vs. Neuse Christian

NLC Storm 51 Neuse Christian Lions 46

In the first girls varsity game played in the new NLC Activities Center, the New Life Storm defated the Lions of Neuse Christian Academy. The Storm girls showed marked improvement from the previous weekend both offensively and defensively, and outrebounded the Lions 50-24. They looked to push the ball upcourt at every opportunity and scored quite a few points in transition. The second period was key - NLC held Neuse to only 3 points in the quarter and stretched a 1-point lead out to 9 points at the half. Mary Williams had 11 first-half points (including a perfect 7-7 at the FT line). Sarah Suffridge provided a spark off the bench, scoring 5 points, playing tough defense, and making numerous hustle plays. The Storm frustrated high-scoring Neuse guard Katelyn Donta with their defense - Mary shadowed her all over the court, and the rest of the team was constantly there to help or double-team. In the second half, the Storm remained in control of the game, taking their largest lead at 47-36 midway through the 4th quarter. The Lions mounted a comeback, aided by some Storm turnovers and rushed shots, and scored 10 unanswered points to cut the lead to 1. The girls who have been there before stepped up for the Storm down the stretch. Hannah Carlson began bringing the ball upcourt against the press and settled the offense down. She found Shelby Suffridge inside for a baby hook to push the lead back to 3. After Neuse failed to score, Shelby was fouled and drained both FT's to put the margin back to 5 and put the game away. For the game, Mary led the Storm in scoring with 16 points, while Shelby had 15 points and 12 rebounds. Sarah also had double figures in rebounds with 11 boards and Emily Stone led in assists with 5.