Cally Carpenter was one of the top scorers in the Knox Morrow Athletic Conference throughout the regular season, and in the opening round of the Division III Central 2 Sectional Tournament she went off for 21 points to lead No. 12 Fredericktown in a 51-17 win over No. 13 Tree of Life Christian.

The Freddies jumped out to a 20-3 lead after one quarter, showing that they were on top of their game on both ends of the court. They outscored the Trojans 11-4 in the second quarter, and took a commanding 31-7 lead into halftime.

“It was important for us to get out to an early lead,” said Coach Jared Pryor. “The girls had some nerves for the first few minutes of the game but were able to find their rhythm quickly.”

Fredericktown came out of the locker room determined to continue the pace, outscoring the Trojans 12-3 in the third quarter. They finished strong with an 8-7 fourth quarter to complete the lopsided playoff win in front of a home crowd.

Carpenter went 7-for-9 and was 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. She also did a nice job hitting her free throws, going 4-for-5. Carpenter tallied two steals, an assist and a rebound, as well.

Mya Bryant was a perfect 6-for-6 shooting in the win, going for 12 points. She also had four rebounds and four steals. Ella Bouton put up eight points, five rebounds, three steals and a block. 

Jill Bouton didn't take a shot in the game, but she was all over the floor otherwise. She played excellent defense with six defensive boards and three blocks, and was also a playmaker by dishing out six assists.

“It was a balanced game for our team,” said Pryor. “Cally Carpenter stood out with how efficient she was from the field. Jill Bouton's unselfishness also stood out while watching the game. Our team is finally healthy and we are playing our best basketball. We have a tough test on Friday at Johnstown but I know that these girls will play their hearts out and be ready to compete.”

No. 7 Johnstown hosts Fredericktown on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the sectional tournament.