Independence hit the court after a two-week break and though it took some time for the Blue Devils to find their rhythm, they went on to win their fifth straight game.
A 24-1 run helped the Blue Devils to pull away from host Wellington in a 51-23 victory.
“I was nervous but we had three really good practices,” said Independence head coach Mike Marcinko of returning after the two-week layoff. “We were a little out of sorts offensively, but defense travels and we really played smart, intense defense that turned into points.”
Natalie George and Alex Adams harassed Wellington’s ball handlers throughout the game and Anna Weber, Casey Adams, Cat Rieger, and Mackenzie McMahon all defended the paint against Wellington’s three 6-footers.
“Everyone coming together and playing as a whole contributed to our success today,” said Weber, who led the Blue Devils with 11 points. “Our two freshmen kept their composure and finished the game for us, which was huge.”
Independence’s defense held Wellington scoreless in the third quarter and coupled with that 24-1 run, the Blue Devils cruised through the second half.
Kara DeSmith contributed to the win with eight points, Casey Adams added seven, George and Alex Adams both finished with six points, and Rieger and Paige Priebe pitched in with five. Addie Walker scored three points.
“Everyone is always ready for what is to come,” Weber said. “We haven’t had one game where we haven’t been prepared through practice and film.”
Independence, who improved to 6-1, hosts Brooklyn on Tuesday.
