Sweet Home takes over first in ECIC II
Girls basketball

Defense has been the big key for the success of the Sweet Home girls basketball team, and its defense has placed them at the top of ECIC Division II.

The Lady Panthers (8-3, 6-0) knocked off Hamburg (6-5, 5-1), 47-41, last Thursday at Sweet Home.

"The difference was our defense," said Sweet Home coach Matt LaRoach. "We really did a nice job of defending. At times Hamburg made plays, but we were able to overcome them and keep the game going our way."

"This was another positive step forward," he continued. "I cannot say enough about our defensive efforts. It will be the difference down the stretch as we get into the second half of league play."

Sweet Home led, 28-21, at halftime and 34-25 after the third quarter.

With one minute to play, Hamburg cut Sweet Home's lead to three points. LaRoach said he called a timeout and regrouped his team, and they responded with four free throws with under a minute to play to seal the win.

Gleniesha Ferby was the difference for Sweet Home on the defensive side of the ball.

"She caused them fits all night long and hustled all over the floor," said LaRoach.

Ellie Allen led Sweet Home with 20 points, eight rebounds and three blocks.

"She was great on both ends of the floor," said LaRoach. "She made plays when we needed her to."

Bianca Smiley added 11 points.

"She was a force inside for us," said LaRoach. "Every game she just seems to be getting stronger."

Nadia Durno added seven points and 10 rebounds.

Hamburg was led by Katie Medina's 11 points.

Sweet Home played at Lancaster on Tuesday for a nonleague game, but the result was unavailable before The Bee went to press. The Lady Panthers play at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Williamsville South.