Kernan MS- The Highlands Middle School Basketball team is the closest thing to dominance in the area since the Gilbert boys basketball team from recent years. Highlands, the 2019 defending county champions looked to return to the championship but they had to go through Kernan (8-1).
Kernan came out aggressive early in the contest, playing with a lot of emotion for Head Coach Amber Smith who is retiring after this season. #12 Bingham asserted herself on offense scoring baskets down low and also drawing fouls. She’s scored 7 points in the first half.
Kernan’s #4 Gabby Fajando also led the charge on offense and defense. She actively deflected passes and drove the lane on offense to attack the basket for buckets. Her 8 point first half contributed to Kernan taking a 22-21 lead at halftime.
In the second half, Highlands came out red hot. #11 Ogletree scored 8 point in the first half, and continued her hot shooting in the second half. #4 Washington scored 7 points in the first half, and was able to get open to knock down shots in the second half.
Highland’s defense held Kernan scoreless for most of the third quarter and completely shut down Kernan in the fourth. #10 Williams and #0 Mullins clamped down against Kernan in pressing the basketball full court. Their aggressive approach led by Coach Eddie Verrett forced steals and created a lead Kernan was unable to return from.
Highlands would defeat Kernan 50-35 to advance to the championship game next Wednesday at Sandalwood where they will face Landon. The Wildcats are looking to repeat as champions, and got a big win to start their playoff quest.
Featured image courtesy of Bonnie Davis Photography
