By Trey Hunter
Sports Editor
Piedmont knew its plan and responded.
The Wildcats entered the 2019 Class 5A Regional Tournament as heavy favorites, much like nearly the entire season. And with two, clear cut victories at home last Thursday and Saturday, they are now one step away from the State Tournament.
“We responded well, like we’ve done all year,” Piedmont coach Eric Carr said of his team’s first two postseason matchups. “We knew that we had to just take care of business and play like we’re supposed to play.”
The Cats dominated in the opening round, knocking out Santa Fe South with a 100-19 win. They held the Saints to just seven makes on 51 attempts while shooting 61-percent and controlling nearly every aspect of the game.
Sophomore Delanie Crawford led the team with 20 points while junior Rain Peyton scored 13. Junior Tyeshia Anderson chipped in 11 points while freshman Triniti Harmon scored 10. All 14 of Piedmont’s players saw at least eight minutes of action and 12 players scored at least four points.
“It’s always cool when we get kids an opportunity to get out there and experience the postseason,” Carr said. “It’s valuable not only for this year, but going forward. It’s definitely rewarding.”
Piedmont moved on to face Woodward in the Regional Tournament championship and ball movement and defense were keys to a 65-49 win. The Cats racked up 16 assists on 23 field goals while holding the Boomers to just 26-percent shooting. They exploded in the second quarter with a 21-4 run to all but seal the Regional title.
“Moving the basketball and making the right plays is something we’ve preached all year,” Carr said. “And the girls moved it around and attacked at the right time. We left the game and people were coming up and commenting on how well we move it. Our kids continue to believe in that.”
Senior Regan Crawford led the team with five helpers while also scoring 10 points. Sophomore Maddy Lee and Anderson finished with four assists each while combining for 17 points. Delanie Crawford led the Cats with 20 points on 7-for-14 shooting.
Piedmont now enters the 2019 Class 5A Area Tournament championship game just one win away from the State Tournament. They take on Lawton Ike Thursday for a chance to advance.
“They’re a longer team and fairly athletic,” Carr said of his team’s next opponent. “They have an Arkansas-commit that is kind of a combo guard and forward, but I feel we have some advantages.
“Joe (Crawford) and I talk about this. How do you prepare for us? We can play inside, shoot the three, play up tempo and slow it down. We’re a tough matchup and I’d like to say we’re great defensively. Again, if we play how we’re supposed to we can take care of business.”
Piedmont and the Eagles tip-off at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Moore.
