Mason Routs Jackson In Girls District Opener

JTV Sports File Photo

By David Rice | JTV Sports

Monday, February 27th, 11:30PM:

On paper coming into Monday’s matchup, these were 2 even teams (by record). But on the court, Mason came prepared and routed the Lady Vikings to advance to Wednesday’s district semifinal.

The game started slow for both teams, but the physicality continued all night long. Mason only outscored Jackson 4-1 in the first 4 minutes of the game, with 2 baskets from Ashlynn Putman. 

Jackson, despite keeping it close to begin, was one step behind on the defensive end for the majority of Monday’s game. Jackson only trailed by 5 after the first quarter, thanks to all 6 points from Amariae Hicks. Mason leads 11-6 after the opening quarter.

Mason started to separate themselves in the next 3 minutes, scoring a quick 5 points to make it 16-6. Jackson then climbed back into it for a bit, with a steal-and-score by Amariae Hicks and Keiyera Johnson to make it a 5-point game. But back-to-back 3-pointers by Ava Clark started to pull the Bulldogs away again.

Mason leads 26-12 at halftime, outsourcing 15-6 in the second quarter.

The second half mostly stayed the course of the first half, despite Jackson making mini scoring runs, in an attempt to stay in it. Sophomore Ava Ruster hit back-to-back 3-pointers for Mason, making it 32-12. The Vikings never looked down, with a few forced turnovers and open shots, Jackson had some motivation to get back in the game.

But after the last few minutes of the 3rd, Mason pulled away for good, leading 35-16.

The fourth quarter was no different, despite only outscoring Jackson by 1. Mason won with a final score of 49-29 over the Lady Vikings. Jackson was led Keiyera Johnson with 12 points. 

Mason advances to play the I-8 Conference Champions, Northwest, on Wednesday night at Mason High School.

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