The Taylor County Lady Cardinals punched their ticket to the 20th District Tournament championship game Thursday night with a dominant offensive performance, rolling to an 84-point outing in the opening round.
Taylor County was sharp from the opening tip, shooting an impressive 54.5 percent from the field while connecting on eight three-pointers and converting 16-of-19 free throws. The Lady Cardinals’ efficiency on offense and balance throughout the lineup proved too much as they controlled the tempo and kept pressure on their opponent throughout the night.
Kayley Benningfield led the way with a game-high 25 points, knocking down nine field goals, including two from beyond the arc, and going a perfect 5-for-5 at the free-throw line. Freshman Kennedy Deener delivered a standout performance as well, pouring in 23 points while hitting three three-pointers and shooting 66.7 percent from the floor.
Greta Bradstreet added 13 points and two three-pointers, while Kallie Vaughn contributed nine points and was flawless from the free-throw line. Avery Raikes chipped in seven points, and Kynleigh Young was perfect from the field, scoring four points on 2-for-2 shooting.
Taylor County’s ability to stretch the floor opened up driving lanes and kept the defense off balance, as the Lady Cardinals finished with 22 made two-point field goals and consistently capitalized at the line. Benningfield also led the team on the glass with six rebounds, while Deener pulled down five to help Taylor County secure a 26-rebound night.
With the win, Taylor County advances to the district championship game, where the Lady Cardinals will face the Campbellsville Lady Eagles on Thursday night with a 20th District title on the line.