By Patrick Ledington
BARBOURVILLE — Knox Central used balanced scoring and strong second-half execution to earn a 59–41 win over Whitley County on Friday night.
The Lady Panthers set the tone early with a spread offense that saw all five starters score in the first quarter. Kaylynn Smith made her presence felt immediately, scoring six of her game-high 18 points in the opening period while also controlling the glass. Knox Central carried a 20–10 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Whitley County responded in the second quarter, battling back behind the aggressive post play of Madisyn Hopkins. Knox Central continued to share the ball and maintain its composure, taking a 33–26 lead into halftime.
The Lady Colonels cut the deficit to just a couple of possessions early in the second half, but Knox Central quickly reestablished control. Shelbie Mills sparked the run with timely three-point shooting, helping the Lady Panthers stretch the lead to 44–34 by the end of the third quarter.
Knox Central closed the game with authority in the fourth quarter, once again going inside to Smith, who scored seven points in the final period as the Lady Panthers pulled away for the win.
Smith and Mills led Knox Central with 18 points apiece, while Mackenzie Hensley added 12 points as the Lady Panthers finished strong on both ends of the floor.
