The Eureka Lady Tornadoes traveled to Caney Valley on Tuesday, Jan. 28, to compete in their first Tri-Valley League matchup of the season. A dominant first-half performance propelled the Tornadoes to a 54-46 victory, handing the previously undefeated Bullpups their first loss of the season.
Eureka won the opening tip but was unable to convert the possession into points. Caney capitalized on their first offensive opportunity, scoring off a high-low play. The Tornadoes quickly responded when Britta Mongeau inbounded the ball to Laynie Winfrey for a quick two points. The Bullpups added another inside shot, but Winfrey answered with a three-pointer.
Eureka’s perimeter shooting proved crucial in the first quarter, as threepoint baskets from Winfrey, Mongeau, and Elle Coulter helped the Tornadoes establish a 16-10 lead after the first eight minutes of play.
The second quarter saw Eureka extend their dominance on both ends of the court. Defensive pressure resulted in six deflections and three forced turnovers, leading to a strong offensive showing. The Tornadoes outscored Caney 18-11 in the quarter, fueled by Mongeau’s three points, Winfrey’s eight, Coulter’s five, and two from Kimber Ptacek. By halftime, Eureka held a commanding 34-21 advantage.
Although Caney Valley outscored Eureka in the second half, the Tornadoes’ first-half dominance provided enough cushion to secure the win. When the final buzzer sounded, Eureka celebrated a 54-46 victory, improving their record to 8-3 and earning their first Tri-Valley League win of the season.
The Lady Tornadoes will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup as they continue their pursuit of success in league play.
Stats and Scoring Leaders: POINTS: Winfrey 20, Mongeau and Coulter 9, Lydia Mason and Hannah Perrier 6 and Ptacek 4. REBOUNDS: Perrier 8, Ptacek 7, Winfrey and Coulter 5 and Mongeau 3. ASSISTS: Ptacek and Mongeau 5, and Perrier
2. STEALS: Perrier 3 and Winfrey and Mongeau 2.
Up Next
On Monday, Feb. 3, the Eureka Lady Tornadoes played the Olpe Eagles on their home court. On Tuesday, Feb. 4, Eureka traveled to Chase County. On Friday, Feb. 7, the Tornadoes will be back home, hosting the Neodesha Bluestreaks for another TVL match.
