The Taylor County Lady Cardinals are headed to the state tournament after defeating the Bethlehem Lady Eagles 52–35 in the championship game of the 5th Region Girls Basketball Tournament on March 7th.
With the victory, Taylor County claims the regional title and earns a spot in the Clark’s Pump and Shop Girls Sweet Sixteen, the annual state championship tournament held in Kentucky.
Taylor County used a balanced offensive effort and a strong defensive performance to pull away from Bethlehem. The Lady Cardinals connected on 9 three-pointers and finished the night 11-for-26 from two-point range, helping build a comfortable lead. Taylor County also controlled the glass with 31 rebounds and moved the ball effectively with 12 assists.
Freshman guard Kennedy Deener led the Lady Cardinals in scoring with 23 points, including a team-high three three-pointers, helping spark the offense throughout the night.
Junior Kayley Benningfield delivered a standout all-around performance, leading the team with eight rebounds, six steals, and six deflections. Benningfield also shared the team lead in assists with four, tying junior Avery Raikes for the most on the night.
Raikes contributed offensively as well, going 3-for-4 from the free-throw line to lead the team in free throws made.
Taylor County’s defensive pressure played a key role in the victory. The Lady Cardinals recorded eight steals, two blocks, and 10 total deflections, while forcing 13 turnovers by Bethlehem.
With the regional championship secured, the Lady Cardinals now advance to the state stage. Taylor County will face the West Jessamine Lady Colts in the opening round of the Clark’s Pump and Shop Girls Sweet Sixteen on March 11th at 8:30 p.m. at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.
The win marks a major milestone for the Lady Cardinals as they continue their postseason run and prepare to compete for a state championship.