Miller was caught on its heels to start its Class 2 sectional game against Crane. The Lady Pirates jumped out to a 20-10 lead after one quarter.
The Lady Cardinals responded with three strong quarters. They cut the lead by seven entering the half trailing 26-23. In the third quarter, Miller moved into the lead with a 43-42 lead going into the deciding eight minutes. In the final quarter, Miller outscored Crane 18-11 to secure the 61-53 win.
Miller’s comeback was a full team effort with Ashlynn Helton (17 points), Loghann Leivan (12 points), Alexis Bailey (11 points) and Rachel Nunez (10 points) all scoring in double figures with Kendall Neely at nine points.
Lily Woodward led Crane and all scorers with 18 points.
Miller (21-8) will host Norwood (24-6) in the state quarterfinal round at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. Neither team was ranked in the final Class 2 state rankings.
Miller 61, Crane 53 – FINAL
Crane – 20-6-16-11 — 53
Miller – 10-13-20-18 — 61
C: Lily Woodward 18, Gracie Rich 12, Hunter Cleveland 8, Allie Frieze 6, Averie Amos 5, Kailey Vaught 3, Sayd Vaught 1
M: Ashlynn Helton 17, Loghann Leivan 12, Alexis Bailey 11, Rachel Nunez 10, Kendall Neely 9, Kalyee Thom 2
