Middlesboro broke a two-game losing streak and built some momentum heading into next week’s 13th Region All “A” Classic with a 47-25 win Thursday over visiting Red Bird.

Kailey Owens scored 16 points and Baylee Woody added 12 for the Lady Jackets.

“We’ve still got a few starters out,” said Middlesboro coach Scott Overbay. “We’re trying to get through this next little stretch and get ready for the upcoming tournament.”

The Lady Jackets were in complete control of the game throughout its duration, starting in the first quarter by outscoring the Lady Cardinals 14-8. Twelve of Middlesboro’s first quarter points came on 3-point baskets — two from Baylee Woody and one apiece from Grace Gent and Kailey Owens.

Both team’s offenses had a tough time finding productivity in the second quarter. However, Middlesboro still outscored Red Bird 7-6, to take a 21-14 lead into the locker room at halftime.

The Middlesboro defense took over the third quarter by holding Red Bird to a single bucket, outscoring them 15-2 to build on their lead heading into the final quarter.

At the start of the final quarter, the Lady Jackets had the game in hand, holding a 36-16 lead, allowing some of the younger Lady Jackets to get some valuable playing time. The Lady Jackets finished out the final quarter outscoring the Lady Cards 11-9.

“I thought our press intensity was up a lot, especially compared to what it had been,” said Overbay. “We still have some things we need to work on, especially utilizing the bounce pass. We didn’t shoot the ball exceptionally well this evening; we have to stop being afraid to shoot the ball. We played great on defense, and I’m very proud of our team tonight.”

———

Middlesboro (47) — Kailey Owens 16, Baylee Woody 12, Kirsten Keith 6, Grace Gent 5, Gracie Moles 4, Emily Glover 3, Marta Segura 1.

Red Bird (25) — Alyssa Gibson 9, Mackenzie Lawson 7, Emily Roark 3, Taylor Caldwell 3, Liberty Taylor 2, Lexie Bowling 1.