- November 23, 2024
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In the Regional 8A quarterfinals, the Flagler Palm Coast Lady Bulldogs (23-4) smothered the Lake Mary Rams 53-32 on Thursday, Feb. 5, at FPC.
The last time the Lady Bulldogs won a regional basketball game was in 1977, when head coach Javier Bevacqua was only 3 years old. FPC has leaned on a pressurized defense all year that has produced myriads of turnovers on a common night, including this one.
In the first and third quarters, FPC held the Lady Rams to just six and two points, respectively. FPC capitalized on the constant ball pressure, converting fastbreak layups for easy scores.
“I was pleased with our defensive activity,” Bevacqua said. “We were flying everywhere, and even when we lost the coverage, we had someone step up, and our rotation was on point.”
Armani Walker led all players with 20 points, and Tamara Henshaw filled the stat sheet with 13 points, 13 rebounds, seven blocks, three steals and three assists. Ivana Boyd and Sada Rowley each finished with six points.
“Everyone did what they’ve been doing all year,” Bevacqua added. “You never know who’s going to have a big game, because we have a lot of girls in double figures every night. Tamara had a big game. She was double teamed all night, but she still dominated on defense with rebounds and blocks.”
FPC will play the regional semifinal against the Seminole Fightin’ Noles Tuesday, Feb. 5, at Seminole High School.
“I’m more proud of the fact that we spoke about sacrifice at the beginning of the year, and on any giving night one girl can probably outscore a team, but she doesn’t,” Bevacqua said. “We sacrifice and share the ball. That team ball is what’s helping us win, and that’s what I’m most happy with.”