Sparkman dominates in season opener at James Clemens
Alexis Jennings scored 23 points in the win over James Clemens
The Sparkman girl’s basketball team showed why they are considered one of the top teams in North Alabama as the Senators defeated James Clemens 67-45 Thursday night to open the basketball season for both teams.
Sparkman’s Alexis Jennings led the way with 23 points and she had plenty of help as Maiya Rumph had 14 points for the Lady Senators.
“I think we did pretty good for our first game back,” said Jennings. “All the hard work this summer has paid off. We’re focused on becoming better teammates.”
Both teams seemed to have a case of the early season jitters as missed free throws were plentiful. James Clemens was led by China Leary who knocked home 4 three-pointers and finished with 14 points.
Sparkman led 16-9 after one quarter and James Clemens got as close as 18-15 after 2 three pointers by Leary early in the second quarter. But that was as close as the Jets would get as Jennings began to take control. She hit two three-pointers and Rumph had a steal and score to put Sparkman up 33-20 at the half.
One goal for Sparkman is to start out the season strong. Alexis Jennings made sure she did her part by pouring in 15 points in the first half. In the second half she had a blocked shot and followed that up with a 3-point basket to put Sparkman up 61-37.
Jennings said the team’s fast start is important.
“I think we will hit our stride pretty soon because with the talent and effort that we have we’re fearless on the court and we have the mindset that we are going all the way. We’re pretty unstoppable right now.”
James Clemens had their two top players in foul trouble as Markala Parker and China Leary both played with four fouls but neither fouled out.
Sparkman’s pressure defense forced 3 early turnovers in the third quarter as the Senators stretched the lead to 40-22. China Leary, the only senior on the James Clemens roster, hit a three pointer to close to 47-33 at the end of three quarters.
Sparkman got solid play from point guard Maiya Rumph who created scoring opportunities for herself and teammates by driving to the basket. In the fourth quarter,Jennings hit a three as Sparkman surged ahead by their biggest lead at 61-37.
Sparkman will play a full slate of boys and girls games at home on Tuesday November 13 against Minor. Their first game in Area 15 will be at Buckhorn on Friday, December 7. Their first area home date is with Hazel Green on Tuesday, December 11.
