The Mineola Lady Jackets took a decisive 69-35 win over the Lady Panthers of Alba-Golden Friday at Panther Gymnasium. 

Each team took measure of their respective schemes. Mineola employed a suffocating, full-court man-to-man defense, while Alba-Golden used a zone press and a 2-3 zone defense. As can be expected in the opening games of the season, each defense measured effectively as multiple turnovers were forced by each side. 

The Lady Panthers opened with a quick surge before Mineola went on an 11-point run mid-quarter. Both teams were in the bonus before the first period expired, and Alba-Golden hit five free throws to close the score to 14-11, Mineola, at the quarter break. 

Canyon Redding scored thrice – a strong offensive rebound put-back, an inside score on a Marley Johnson assist and a jumper – to open the second period.  It forced an Alba-Golden time-out. 

The Lady Panthers collected themselves. In quick succession, Averi Stevenson took a charge and cleanly blocked a Lady Jacket shot. The ensuing momentum could not, however, translate on the offensive side. Mineola outscored Alba-Golden by 10 points in the second period.

The Lady Jackets attacked the Alba-Golden zone by quickly passing the ball around the perimeter until a clear pass to the inside post became open. An aggressive pass and strong finish, usually from Redding or Adelyn Steward followed. 

At the half the score stood 30-17, Mineola. 

The second half was a game of physicality and conditioning. Despite some positive adjustments made by the Lady Panthers at the break, it was the Lady Jackets who came to dominate the game in the second half. 

Mineola’s defensive pressure was relentless and generated a 12-point run at the close of the third period. The play became ragged on both sides as the game drew to a close.   

Both teams showed great potential for a very successful season. The Lady Jackets will be leveraging the significant physical presence of Kali Chrietzberg, Adelyn Steward, Mahayla McMahon and Canyon Redding with the quickness of Caroline Castleberry, Sophia Hogue and Kaitlyn McMahon. Newcomer Marley Johnson is already contributing to the mix. 

For the Lady Panthers, their attack will feature the leadership of guard Jayla Sitar and back-court partners of Joecey Lewers and Peyton Clark. Each of the three guards are capable of taking the ball to the basket. Averi Stevenson’s work in the middle will be augmented by newcomer Harper Gaskill. Faith Graham, Briana Ringgold, and Sophie Richardson round out a capable roster. 

The next chance to see the Lady Jackets at home is at the Mineola tourney on Thursday, Nov. 20 and Saturday Nov. 22. The Lady Panthers will next be at home on Tuesday, Nov. 25 as they host Harmony.