Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
For the first time in school history, the Edmonson County Lady Cats are back-to-back-to-back District 12 Champions after defeating the Lady Cougars of Grayson County 55-41 on their own home court.

Led by junior guard Katie Lindsey's 27 points, Edmonson County fought a back-and-forth match during the first half, while overcoming a first quarter deficit. The Lady Cougars got the tip and nailed a three-pointer and Edmonson fans wondered if it would be a repeat of the boys' game on Tuesday night; however, that wouldn't be the case.

Edmonson County scratched back on top just before halftime, capped off by junior Macie McCombs huge three with two seconds left. The Lady Cats led 23-19 at the break. 

Edmonson County would not lose the lead again, despite a run by Grayson County to start the fourth quarter. A three-pointer from the Lady Cougars cut the Lady Cat lead to 39-33 with 6:52 to go but both teams went on a drought for the next minute and a half. With about five minutes left in the game, Edmonson began to pull away, which forced Grayson County to foul.

Edmonson County shot 67% from the free throw line, a number much better than they've shown as of late, which included 11/13 attempts from senior Lauren Ballance, who finished with 15 points. She hit 8 consecutive free throws down the stretch and also pulled 7 rebounds.

Lindsey described what it was like to be part of the third consecutive district championship team.

"This is unreal, this is the first time we've ever done this in history," she said. "I mean, it's just unreal. I can't believe we've managed to do that."

After last week's 31-point blowout over the Lady Cougars at ECHS, both Lindsey and Ballance said they weren't looking for the same result, but they were prepared for tonight's championship game.

"We weren't overconfident," said Lindsey. "We didn't overlook them by thinking we were just going to come in here and win but we were ready to play."

"They're in their home gym, we knew they would make runs," Ballance added. "Madison (Harrison) was on the bench (with foul trouble) but we knew we'd have to weather the storm and that was our game plan."

The Lady Cats were uncharacteristically out-rebounded by the Lady Cougars, 20-25, but Edmonson's defense caused problems for Grayson County all night and they were able to turn Grayson County turnovers into points in the second half. Edmonson County only committed 5 turnovers as a team.

Coach Bart Weaver talked about how proud he was of his entire team and credited a team effort for the win. 

"This is something we've been talking about all year and it's been our ultimate goal," he said. "It just feels so good and I'm so proud of these senior girls that have put their heart and soul into this. Some of them have been playing six years. And the rest of the team, it was just a total team effort tonight and it makes a little more special to cut the nets here, too."

In addition to Lindsey and Ballance, McCombs had 7 points, Paige Wolfe had 3, Emma Rose Vincent had 2, and Madison Harrison had one point. 

"We were sitting in class today and someone said 'do you realize you have a chance to make history?' and we were like 'yeah, we're gonna do it,' and it's just the best feeling in the world," said Ballance. 

Lindsey said the team decided in the third quarter that it was time to get more aggressive. They outscored the Lady Cougars 14-10 in the quarter.

"We knew in the third that it was the most important time of the game, and we knew that was the time to put it away, in the beginning of the third."

While it wasn't the blowout like last week, it was enough for a third consecutive district championship. 

The Lady Cats will draw on Saturday to find out who they will face in next week's Region 3 Tournament at the Owensboro Sportscenter. Because they are a district champion, they will face off against a district runner-up. As of now, it looks as though they will play either Monday or Tuesday night. 

​Edmonson County improves to 20-10 on the season.

Click here for video interviews of players and Coach Weaver:

Season Ends With 73-62 Loss 

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
Edmonson County had trouble with offensive rhythm early while they struggled to keep the Cougars' dribble penetration under control in a first-round district tournament 73-62 loss last night at Grayson County High School. 

While the Wildcats kept their turnovers down (11) and out-rebounded Grayson County 21-19, the Cougars found success driving the lane for paint points as well as in perimeter shooting. Edmonson County also shot poorly against a tough man-to-man defense from Grayson County. 

Grayson County's Keegan Sharp started the contest with a 28-foot three-pointer and the Cougars kept control of the game from then on. The low-scoring contest saw Grayson County take an early 13-10 lead after the first quarter and a 30-23 lead at halftime.

Edmonson County increased their defensive pressure at the start of the second half, which resulted in some Cougar turnovers and points for the Wildcats in transition, but every time Edmonson started to put some offense together, the Cougars would seemingly respond with either a three pointer or would get the benefit of a call on an and-one. 

Edmonson County's Dalton Decker finished with a game-high 28 points, and two other Wildcats finished in double figures (Chaz Wilson 12, Mason Pierce 14) but Edmonson County never found their rhythm as the Cougars went on to win.

Head Coach Mike McClintic discussed the game, his seniors, and the entire season afterwards.

"Grayson County took us out of what we wanted to do early, both offensively and defensively," he said. "They penetrated, got in the lane, and either scored or kicked it out for an open shot, or we fouled--and we got into foul trouble early."

Coach Mac said his guys likely forced some shots early and that Grayson wanted it more, early in the game.

"But our kids fought back, they didn't just give up, and the effort in the second half and especially toward the end of the game was great, but it was just a little too late."

It was the final high school basketball game for seven seniors: Dalton Decker, Nick Clemmons, Eli Booker, Mason Pierce, Trent Taylor, Luke Meredith, and Houston Vincent. Coach Mac credited those seniors for their character on and off the court.

"I'm proud of our kids. I'm proud of the way we bounced back from the beginning of the season. I hate to go out this way, especially for our seniors, because they're a great group of kids," he said. "They're going to be fine people out in the community after they graduate. I told them all not to change. I love them all like my sons. They're going to be successful in life as long as they continue on the same paths they're on now."

In addition to Decker, Pierce, and Wilson, Eli Booker scored 3 points, Nick Clemmons and Daniel Woosley each had 2, and Trent Taylor scored one point. 

The Wildcats finish with a record of 12-15 on the season. Edmonson County's girls will take on Grayson County in the District 12 Championship game on Thursday night with a scheduled tip of 7PM. The Lady Cats will attempt to become the first girls team in school history to achieve three consecutive district titles for ECHS basketball. 

**update: The original article mistakenly left out senior Luke Meredith from the list. We apologize for the error and have added Luke's name to the list.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
It wasn't the prettiest win of the season, but the Lady Cats of Edmonson County overcame poor shooting and sloppy play at times to defeat Whitesville-Trinity 38-27.

Edmonson County took down the Lady Raiders for the third time this season tonight, something that's difficult for any team to do. The win also guarantees that the Lady Cats' season will continue, win or lose at Thursday night's district finals, in the Region 3 tournament next week in Owensboro.

No stats from the Lady Cats were outstanding, but Edmonson County was able to figure out a way to keep it together defensively, out-rebound the Lady Raiders, and show composure and poise in the final quarter as Trinity tried to mount a comeback. 

Edmonson County's defense held Trinity's leading scorer Cassidy Morris to only 12 points. Morris is ranked 15th in the state in scoring at 22 points per game.  

Lindsey led the Lady Cats in scoring with 16 points. While no other Edmonson player hit double figures, it was enough to help secure the win. Coach Bart Weaver said he was actually glad the game wasn't as smooth or as easy as some might have wanted it.

"Some people may think I'm crazy but I'm glad we just didn't come in here and things go really easy," he said. "This was a tough contest for us. We survived. That's about all you can say, but I think it puts us in a good position to play for the championship on Thursday night. We've got our eyes on the prize." 

Weaver's plan was to out rebound Trinity, which they did, and contain Morris, which they did as well. Edmonson County held Trinity to a season-low point total of only 27.

"That was huge," said Weaver. "We were counting on our defense and to hold her to only 12 points, that was key in this game."

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
Edmonson County held their own against a much bigger Greenwood Gator team for three quarters, but a huge run by the Gators in the final quarter was too much for the Cats to overcome as they fell 71-60.

The Wildcats were coming off a huge district win over Grayson County at home the night before on senior night where Dalton Decker reached milestones of joining the school's 1000 point club and making his 100th career three-pointer. Decker paced the Wildcats tonight with 22 points.

Mason Pierce and Chaz Wilson added 10 points each. Eli Booker added 6, Daniel Woosley had 5, Trent Taylor had 3, and Gavin Rose and Nick Clemmons each had 2.

​

Edmonson County is now 12-14 on the season. Their focus now is the District 12 Tournament, where they are scheduled to face Grayson County on Tuesday night in Grayson County at approximately 7:45.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
A strong defensive effort helped the Lady Cats get an early lead and fend off a big third quarter run from the Greenwood Lady Gators Friday night in Bowling Green in a 53-40 Edmonson County win.

It was the fourth win in six days for Edmonson County. The Lady Cats held the Lady Gators to only one basket in the first quarter, taking a 17-2 lead going into the second. Greenwood finally started putting some offense on the board but their early deficit allowed Edmonson County to take a 30-15 lead into the locker room at the half.

Greenwood came out strong in the third quarter with defensive pressure. Edmonson County forced a few shots and committed some turnovers, which allowed the Lady Gators to cut the lead to 36-28 in a Greenwood 17-6 quarter.

Strong drives and good ball handling helped the Lady Cats the rest of the way and a few foul shots in the final couple minutes sealed the win for Edmonson County.

The Lady Cats were led by Katie Lindsey's 16 points and 5 assists. Lauren Ballance added 12 and 6 rebounds, and Emma Rose Vincent had 10 points and 5 rebounds. Macie McCombs had 7 points, Lily Jayne Vincent had 4 points, Madison Harrison added 2 points and 9 rebounds, and Paige Wolfe had 2 points 

Edmonson County is now 18-10 on the season. They will now prepare for the District 12 Tournament, where they have the number one seed. They are scheduled to take on Whitesville-Trinity in the first game on Monday with a 6pm tip off.

The Lady Cats have the opportunity to be the only girls' team in school history to win three consecutive district championships. 

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
Members of the 1982 and 1983 Edmonson County High School Baseball Regional Championship teams gathered at ECHS last night for a ceremony in their honor. 

The teams' head coach Mike Houchin and assistant coach Ricky Houchin were both present along with several members of each team.

Those in attendance that were recognized were:

• Johnny Pete Vincent, ECHS Principal, 1982, 1983
• Stan Alexander, ECHS Athletic Director, 1982-83
• Glendale Meredith, Barry Vincent, Todd Webb, 1982 team members
• Bryan Thompson, Mark Woosley, 1983 team members
• Tim Basil, Craig Browning, Dion Houchins, Greg Meredith, Shane Meredith, Kevin Ray, Jason VanMeter, 1982 and 1983 team members

In a special surprise, Glendale Meredith, who was a senior on the 1982 team, caught the last outs for both the 12th district championship and the regional championship, made an additional presentation. He saved both baseballs for his collection over the years but presented one to Head Coach Mike Houchin and the other to Asst. Coach Ricky Houchin.

Both coaches were also presented commemorative team posters for each year.

All participants were also treated to a special reception afterwards, compliments of Scott Lindsey and Rafferty's.

Alyssa Doyle, photos:
The 2020 winter sports senior night ceremony was held at ECHS last night between the girls and boys basketball games. Twenty-eight seniors and their families were recognized at center court for their contributions to Edmonson County sports and programs this year.

Seniors from archery, pep band, cheer, and basketball were honored.

The following seniors were recognized along with their families:

• Morgan Graham, archery, daughter of Larry and Felicia Graham
• Samantha Massey, archery, daughter of Melissa and Dale Massey
• Robert Saltsman, archery, son of Rebecca and Travis Basham
• Kaden Wagoner, archery, son of Cynthia Wagoner and Kymric Wagoner
• Dalton Webb, archery, son of Jason and Andrea Webb
• Dillon Webb, archery, son of Sheen Webb, grandson of Steve and Terri Webb
• Callie Willis-Warthan, pep band, daughter of Meredith and Shawn Warthan
• Chloe Collins, cheer, daughter of Timmy and Dottie Collins
• Rachel Cowles, cheer, daughter of Scott and Dana Cowles
• Johnathan Filback, cheer, son of Glen Filback and Rhoda Filback
• Adrianna Harp, cheer, daughter of Alecia and William Harp
• Mackenzie Jones, cheer, daughter of Frances and Sonny Jones
• Meredith Treece, cheer, daughter of Marty and GeorgeAnn Treece
• Lauren Ballance, basketball, daughter of Bill and Tyra Ballance
• Mia Goad, basketball, daughter of Stacey and Greg Goad
• Madison Harrison, basketball, daughter of Glendal and Jackie Decker
• Emma Rose Vincent, basketball, daughter of Tom and Laura-Grace Vincent
• Alexis Cook, basketball, daughter of Susan and J.R. Cook
• Austin Curtis, basketball manager, son of Tommy and Tina Curtis
• Trace Brantley, basketball manager, son of Robbie and Andrea Brantley
• Layke Sanders, basketball manager, son of Alison and Jon Fillingham and Charles Sanders
• Eli Booker, basketball, son of Neal and Krissie Booker
• Nick Clemmons, basketball, son of Chad and Leslie Clemmons
• Dalton Decker, basketball, son of Rickey and Tara Decker
• Luke Meredith, basketball, son of Michael and Marsha Meredith
• Mason Pierce, basketball, son of Terry and Cherrie Pierce
• Trent Taylor, basketball, son of Nathan Taylor and Heather and David Alexander
• Houston Vincent, basketball, son of Robbie and Melissa Vincent

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
It was a big night for Edmonson County basketball on Thursday against Grayson County in a girl/boy doubleheader at ECHS. It was senior night for four Lady Cats and seven Wildcats, and after a dominating performance by Edmonson's girls, who drew the top seed for the district tournament, the boys took the court for the final district match of the season.

Edmonson County's Dalton Decker needed only 11 points to reach the 1,000 point club for the Wildcats, which came with 5:56 in the third quarter. Edmonson was leading 27-16 when Decker nailed a three pointer. The Wildcats called a 30 second timeout as Decker was recognized and presented the game ball. After being congratulated by coaching staff and teammates, Decker ran the ball over to the stands and gave to his parents. 

Decker said while he knew the milestone was attainable at last night's game, the focus was beating the Cougars.

"Obviously getting 1000 is awesome, it's a great feeling, but coming into the game, it was about Grayson County," he said. Grayson County is who we wanted to beat, and to beat them by the margin we did was awesome. On senior night, too. Everything was great tonight."

Decker said he realized the Grayson County will be seeking revenge when the Cats face them again at their home gym next week for the district tournament.

"It's going to be their home crowd and they're used to their court, but after tonight, they definitely know what to expect and we're going to bring it even harder than we did tonight," he said.

Edmonson County led 11-9 as the first quarter was winding down but the Cougars took the lead on a last-second half court shot, 12-11 as the quarter expired. The second quarter would be the difference maker as the Wildcats went on a 16-2 run and held a 13 point lead at halftime.

The pace of the game stayed about the same through the second half and the Wildcats went on to win. Decker's 16 points led the Wildcats while Chaz Wilson's 15 points and 11 rebounds also impressed. Mason Pierce added 9 points and 9 rebounds, Nick Clemmons and Eli Booker each added 6 points, and Trent Taylor added 1. 

It was the final home game for seven Wildcat seniors: Decker, Clemmons, Pierce, Booker, Taylor, Luke Meredith, and Houston Vincent. 

Edmonson County will head to Greenwood tonight for the final regular season game of 2019-20. They are scheduled to play the Cougars again in the first round of the District 12 Tournament at Grayson County on Tuesday at approximately 7:45pm.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photo:
The Edmonson County Lady Cats were ready when they took the court Thursday night in a heated district rivalry against Grayson County in a dominating 63-32 win as they jumped out to a big start and never looked back.

It was senior night at ECHS and four Lady Cats were recognized for their years of service to the team: Lauren Ballance, Emma Rose Vincent, Madison Harrison, and Mia Goad. Goad, who has been out with an injury since the 4th game of the season, started the contest even though she wasn't officially cleared to play. The teams agreed to allow Mia to start and score a basket for ceremonial purposes and in exchange, the Lady Cats allowed Grayson a basket on their end. After the buckets were traded, Goad was replaced by Macie McCombs and the contest continued at normal pace.

The Lady Cats led 13-4 after the first quarter and had amassed a 20-point lead at the half. Edmonson County wiped the boards clean with what could be a school record for the Lady Cats in team rebounds for one game--an astounding number of 48. Coach Bart Weaver said their game plan was executed perfectly.

"The last two days we've had really good preparation. Hats off to my girls," he said. "You know, they executed tonight and it was one of those games, where you know, I don't know if you could ever look out there and say that somebody didn't play well. You know what I'm saying? Man, we've been waiting for that. It happened against Grayson and that makes it even sweeter."

In addition to the joy of defeating a rival on senior night, the win tied Edmonson and Grayson's district record. It was also the first district loss of the season for the Lady Cougars. A drawing was held immediately after the game to see who would take the top seed, which went in Edmonson County's favor. 

The Lady Cats shot 48% from the field, 60% behind the three-point line, and had four players in double figures.

Edmonson was led with Ballance's 13 points and 14 rebounds, Emma Rose Vincent had 12 points and 6 rebounds, Katie Lindsey  had 11 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds, Macie McCombs added 11 points and 7 rebounds, Shea VanMeter added 6 points, Madison Harrison had 4 points and 9 rebounds, Mia Goad had 2, Paige Wolfe had 2, and Maham Shahbaz also added 2. 

"Sometimes in the past, you might have a little doubt about playing Grayson, but tonight, I'm telling you, those girls thought they were gonna beat them, went out and executed, and did a good job," said Weaver. 

The win was also revenge for Edmonson County, who lost a double digit lead on the road at Grayson County in the fourth game of the season where the Lady Cats lost 66-56.

The Lady Cats travel to Greenwood tonight for the final regular game of the season with a 6pm scheduled tip off. They are then scheduled to take on Whitesville-Trinity in the first round of the District 12 Tournament on Monday night at 6pm, which will be hosted at Grayson County.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Edmonson County High School senior athlete Chance Lucas signed with Campbellsville University today to play not only football but also run track.

Lucas signed the documents with his family, coaching staffs, and fellow players. ECHS Head Football Coach Nathan Smith addressed the audience at today's ceremony and shared some positive thoughts about the senior.

"This is a testament to how hard he's worked," Smith said. "If you'd have told me as a freshman that he was going to go on to play college football, I don't that I'd have believed you," he said with a smile. "But he's absolutely worked his hind-end off the last four years to put himself here at this opportunity, so we're really proud of him."

Chance Lucas also spoke to the audience, giving thanks to those that included friends, teammates, and coaches. 

"I probably wouldn't be here if it wasn't for all of you all," he said. "I also want to thank my parents and all family. I also want to thank my girlfriend."

Chance is the son of Howard and Laura Lucas. Both of the proud parents had plenty to say about this special day for their son.

"I'm really proud of him," said Howard, who also said he knew Chance would achieve great accomplishments even when Chance was in the second grade. "He's very relentless, he's dedicated, he never gives up. He's had a 4.0 ever since I can remember. When he was little, we went to one of the graduations and he told me 'dad, you know what? When I graduate, they're gonna have all kinds of stuff to say about me,' and I said boy, I hope that's a good thing."

His mother, Laura, also shared her excitement for this special day. 

"He has worked and worked and worked, and he always told us he was going to play college football," she said. "He's very smart and very determined, and he's all in it."

Campbellsville University is a private college in Kentucky with an enrollment of 12,000.

Edmonson Voice Sports:
Edmonson County's only regional championship baseball teams will be recognized on Thursday, February 20, 2020, as ECHS takes on Grayson Co. High School in a boy/girl doubleheader. 

The 1982 Regional Champion Wildcats rode an explosive 1982 team to the school’s first ever state tournament appearance after winning the 12th District and Region 4 crowns with first year head coach Mike Houchin and Assistant Coach Ricky Houchin.  The team lost to Henderson County in first round action and wrapped up the season with a 17-4 record. 

The 1983 team pulled off an encore performance the following year during a 14-5 campaign that eventually ended with a loss to the Owensboro Red Devils in the first round of the sweet sixteen by one run, 7-6.  OHS won the state championship three games later.

ECHS fans are encouraged to attend and help welcome back these former Wildcats. Team members are sending a special invitation to the Classes of 1982 and 1983 to come out and join a team reunion while cheering on the Wildcats against the Cougars.

1982 and 1983 ECHS Baseball Team Members
1982 Team Members:  Mike Buttram, Glendale Meredith, Lynn Meredith, Sonny Prunty, Kevin Raymer, Barry Vincent, Todd Webb.

1983 Team Members:  David Alexander, Brad Houchin, Keith Ohmer, Bryan Thompson, Jimmy Wilson, Mark Woosley.

1982 AND 1983 Team Members:  Robbie Alexander, Tim Basil, Craig Browning, Dion Houchins, Scott Key, Greg Meredith, Shane Meredith, Eugene Spradlin, Kevin Ray, Chris Raymer, Roland Simmons, Jason VanMeter, Allen Vincent.  Assistant Coach – Ricky Houchin.  Head Coach – Mike Houchin.       ​

Darren Doyle, story:
​Both the Wildcat and Lady Cat basketball teams have had success as of late, and some of that success can be credited to two more players that have reached the milestone of 500 career rebounds.

Chaz Wilson, a junior forward, grabbed his 500th rebound on January 31st of this year against Butler County at home. Wilson currently averages 10 points and 6 rebounds per game. As a sophomore, he averaged 14 ppg and 10 rpg. He missed the first part of this season due to a baseball injury in the summer, but after lengthy rehabilitation he has since returned to the starting lineup.

Coach Mike McClintic said that Chaz is an everyday hard worker and is the team's vocal leader.

"He's very focused on doing whatever he needs to do to hep his teammates win," he said. "He's a very coach-able player and he's a great person off the court as well."

During his three years as part of the Wildcats, he's scored a total of 769 points and grabbed 532 rebounds. The Wildcats are 11-12 on the season with a regular district season record of 2-3. The Wildcats have won 8 of their last 10 games. The District 12 Tournament is scheduled for next week at Grayson County for both the boys and girls.

Senior Lauren Ballance reached the same milestone on Saturday, February 15th in a 51-44 win over Warren Central. Ballance finished with 12 points and 14 rebounds to put her at 502 career rebounds. Now in her fourth season as a Lady Cat, she has scored 807 career points. She currently averages 14 points and 7 rebounds per game. The Lady Cats have won 9 of their last 12 contests.

Coach Bart Weaver said that rebounding and defending have always been attributes for Ballance and that her success in rebounding should be even more noted because she doesn't have the advantage of size like other players.

"Lauren's 500 rebounds are remarkable because she's battling much bigger girls," Weaver said. "She seems to have a natural instinct for where the ball comes off the rim. She's now gained much more confidence, which has led to her becoming our leader scorer this year," he added.  

The Lady Cats' Madison Harrison reached the 500 rebound mark on January 28th in a win over Metcalfe County. Senior Emma Rose Vincent currently has 469 career rebounds, needing 31 to join her teammates with a minimum of four games left for Edmonson County.

Wildcat senior Dalton Decker currently sits at 972 career points, needing just 28 more to join the 1000-point club in three years. Decker was not on the varsity team as a freshman.

The Lady Cats are 15-10 on the season and are 4-1 in regular season district play. This is the final week of regular season games with each team having three G/B doubleheaders this week. Tonight, the teams are scheduled to travel to Hart County for a makeup game which was originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 4th. Girls tip is set for 5:30pm with the boys' game to follow. 

You can watch both games on the Edmonson Voice live video stream with the WildcatsLive broadcast team beginning at 5:15pm.  

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photos:
The Wildcats put their foot on the gas in the third quarter, scoring a total of 32 points during a 21-point differential that put the game out of reach for the Colonels in a 77-53 win for Edmonson County last night.

Both teams looked sharp early with hot shooting from the Wildcats and a strong inside presence from the Colonels' 6'9" Jaxton Dunagan as the Cats took a 12-10 lead after one quarter. Edmonson County continued with solid shooting, rebounding, and low turnovers to take a 26-22 lead at the half, paced by Dalton Decker's 13 first-half points.

The third quarter was the difference maker in this contest as the Wildcats went on a relentless 32-11 run that left Caverna completely disoriented. Edmonson County led as much as 30 plus points in the contest.

The Wildcats were able to control the inside game of Caverna while holding their leading scorer, Deshante Richardson (17ppg) to only 8 points. Their defensive pressure forced Colonel turnovers where Edmonson County was able to convert into points. The Wildcats also out-rebounded Caverna 33-24 and shot 53% from the field. Twelve Wildcats got into the scorebook with Decker (17pts), Chaz Wilson (13pts), and Trent Taylor (10pts) in double figures, with Daniel Woosley narrowly missing double figures with 9 points.

"When we move the ball and get everybody involved, it seems like it picks up the rhythm," said Coach Mike McClintic. "I thought there in the third quarter we really got out there and ran with the ball, shared the ball on the fast break, and even our big boys were down running the break, and that's important."

Also contributing to the offense was Gavin Rose with 5 points, Eli Booker, Jon Smith, Mason Pierce, and Luke Meredith all had 4pts each, Lane Lindsey had 3, and Houston Vincent and Isaiah Johnson had 2 each. All fourteen Wildcats saw game action.

"I thought we really picked up the defense," said Coach Mac. "We got some stops, we dropped down and helped on the big boy, and that made a difference. But we shut down the two kids we wanted to shut down, (Richardson and Rhodes), but getting stops and getting rebounds were the keys to the whole game."

Edmonson County is now 10-11 on the season and have won 8 out of their last 10 contests. They are scheduled to travel to Russellville tonight for a boys JV/V game beginning at 6pm.

Darren Doyle, story: Alyssa Doyle, photo:
The Lady Cats were quite rusty at Caverna last night as they were taken down with a Lady Colonels go-ahead bucket in the final seconds for a 41-39 loss.

Turnovers and poor shooting plagued Edmonson County throughout the contest that Head Coach Bart Weaver described as embarrassing.

"This is a real tough loss. It's by far the worst loss of the season," he said. "It's not the time to be doing this in the middle of February."

Edmonson County schools had to close two different times over the past two weeks as a result of poor attendance due to area wide illnesses. Edmonson County basketball teams had only two practices and no games during the 10-day period, which can be very problematic for the rhythm of any team.

"It is what is," he said. "We crushed them on the boards (38-23) but shot 26% for the game...usually our rebounding and defense overcomes those nights. Our rebounding was good but I thought our defense was pitiful tonight."

Weaver said it seemed like his team was never in any sort of flow in the game. Only 5 team members were able to score in the contest with only one in double figures, which was Lauren Ballance. She led the team with 21 points and 11 rebounds.

"If being embarrassed, losing to a 6-9 team, doesn't do it, I don't know what can do it," he said when asked about how a game like this can motivate his team for the final two weeks of the regular season. 

The Lady Cats jumped out to a 4 point lead within seconds after causing two quick turnovers and scoring, but Caverna adjusted and began driving the lane. The Lady Cats struggled with help defense and Lady Colonels scorers had easy layups. Both teams traded punches throughout the contest and the low-scoring affair was tied at 18 at the half. Caverna took a 28-25 lead going into the final quarter.

Edmonson County led 35-31 with 3 mins left. The Lady Cats took a 37-36 lead on Emma Rose Vincent's free throws with 1:46 remaining. Out of a timeout, Caverna's McKeeya Faulkner hit a three pointer to give them a 39-37 lead with 1:26 to go. The Lady Cats turned the ball over on the next possession. Caverna was fouled but missed both free throws as the Lady Cats rebounded. Lauren Ballance was fouled with 13.7 seconds left. She nailed both free throws to tie the game at 39 but Caverna was able to score with 2.8 seconds left. Edmonson County had to throw up a deep three at the buzzer that fell short.

The remaining box score for the Lady Cats was: E. Vincent 9, Lindsey 4, Harrison 3, McCombs 2.

The Lady Cats are now 14-9 on the season and are scheduled to take on Ohio County at home on Thursday in a girls JV/V match beginning at 6pm.