Lady Huskies too much for Royal

ROYAL CITY — Othello jumped out to a 21-6 lead in the first quarter and went on to defeat Royal City 72-18 in non-league basketball action Tuesday. After taking a 34-15 lead into the locker room at half time, Othello outscored the Lady Knights 25-0 in the third quarter.

Royal City had their opportunities to score in the third, but just couldn't seem to get a good bounce.

"Our shots didn't fall tonight," said Royal City head coach Maria Lefler.

"We had trouble with their (full-court) press," Lefler added. "Othello is a fundamentally sound team."

The Huskies defense was effective throughout the night, as Royal City turned the ball over 27 times.

"With our half-court defense, we focused on turnovers," Othello head coach Doug Boyer said.

"We threw in the full-court presses three days ago," added Boyer. "The girls did it very well, and they sold out on it."

Othello also controlled the glass, as Brittney Livingston, Ashley Walker and Allison Walker all hit double digits in rebounds.

"The girls set individual goals," said Boyer. "We fulfilled those goals."

The Huskies also achieved team goals, such as protecting the ball. Othello had just six turnovers on the night.

Boyer pointed to his team's preparation as key to the big victory.

"We prepared for Royal like we would for East Valley or Connell, because they are a respectable team," said Boyer.

After the challenge against their larger neighbors to the east, Royal City returns to SCAC league action against Wahluke.

"We had a nice win Saturday," said Lefler. "We're looking forward to getting back into league."

Royal City is currently 1-0 in SCAC play.

"We're inexperienced," Lefler said of her Lady Knights. "We're making improvements every night."

Ashley Walker led the Huskies with 19 points. Othello guards Donna Franco and Rachel Mohs combined for 13 assists.