Photos by Jim & Regina Devinney
The James River girls continued to impress with three more wins on the basketball court last week. The girls won two non-district games against quality opponents sandwiched around a win over district arch-rival Radford.
River opened the week with a 50-43 win at Cave Spring, sweeping the season series from the Class 3 River Ridge District team. Then, on Thursday, the Knights returned home to beat Radford, 55-41.
This was a close game through three quarters, as River led just 37-32 heading into the fourth quarter. However, the Knights outscored Radford 18-9 in the final period to win going away.
“Radford shot the ball exceptionally well from the three-point line,” said River coach Donald Eggleston, as the Bobcats hit seven threes to just one for River. “In the last three games we have given up 20 three-pointers. Our defense needs to step up and guard the shooter better if we want to continue playing at a high level.”
Caitlin Canada had another double-double with 28 points and 11 rebounds. Audrey Benson had seven points and 10 boards and River made 15 of 18 free throw attempts, which was a big factor in the win.
On Saturday the Knights played in the “Preemies Showcase” event at Western Albemarle High, an all-day benefit. River was paired up with Monticello High and the Knights beat the Class 3 Mustangs, 47-27. River led 24-12 at the half, then outscored Monticello 14-5 in the third period to put it away. River forced the Mustangs into 20 turnovers.
Benson led the team in scoring in this game with 19 points and she also had five steals. Canada continued her double-double streak with 17 points and 12 rebounds.
The 12-1 Knights were scheduled to play at Patrick County Tuesday in a Three Rivers District game but results were too late for publication. Tonight they have another district game at Glenvar, and next Tuesday they have a big one at Alleghany. The Colts come into the week at 8-3 overall and are also undefeated in the district thus far.
