The Paris girls’ basketball team, known as the Lady Coyotes, secured a decisive victory against Sturgeon, winning 65-53 in the quarterfinals of the Class 2 District 5 tournament held at Van-Far. This win marks an important step for Paris as they move forward in the tournament, improving their record to 21-6.
Strong Second Quarter Propels Lady Coyotes
Despite a slow start on Monday evening, the Lady Coyotes quickly found their rhythm. After trailing initially, Paris outscored Sturgeon 24-6 in the second quarter, igniting a powerful momentum shift. The team kicked off the quarter with a remarkable 16-0 run, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity.
Leading the charge for Paris was Melanie Moore, who delivered an outstanding performance with 25 points, along with seven rebounds and seven steals. Her all-around play proved crucial in solidifying the team’s advantage. Close behind her were Reese Sutton and Hailey Morgan, contributing 13 points and 9 points respectively. Sutton also grabbed seven rebounds, further enhancing the Lady Coyotes’ control on the court.
Sturgeon’s Resilience in Defeat
On the other side, Sturgeon fought valiantly, with Allie Heath leading her team with 25 points and an impressive five three-pointers. Despite Heath’s efforts, Sturgeon, now with a record of 6-20, was unable to overcome the Lady Coyotes’ offensive surge.
Looking ahead, the Lady Coyotes are set to face Louisiana, who holds a record of 17-9, in the semifinals scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. This upcoming match will be crucial as Paris aims to advance further in the tournament.
For those interested in following the developments of the tournament, a full story will be featured in the Wednesday edition of the Mexico Ledger. The publication also offers photo reprints, which can be ordered by contacting their office at 573-581-1111. All images and materials on the website are protected under copyright law.
