From the opening tip,  Hillsboro dominated last Tuesday’s Scenic Bluffs Conference girls’ basketball game.

The Tigers jumped out to an early lead and continued to expand it throughout in a 56–35 victory over Wonewoc–Center.

Hillsboro (7–5, 3–3 SBC) outscored the Wolves (4–8, 1–5) 10–6 in the opening quarter and never trailed the rest of the way.

A 19–9 second quarter run gave the Tigers a commanding 29–15 lead. The home team continued piling on the points in the third quarter with an 18–10 burst that pushed the lead to 22 points at 47–25 entering the fourth quarter.

Hillsboro used a full-court press, forcing 20-plus turnovers, and got strong shooting performances from juniors Mackenzie Sullivan, Destiny Shore and Brittany Borchardt.

“Our press has been extremely effective throughout the season,” said Hillsboro head coach Scott Egan. “We were able to create turnovers and force Wonewoc to take quick shots out of it. I also think it was important that our reserves were able to come in and hold the lead instead of letting Wonewoc cut into it. Our depth is really starting to peak.”

Freshman Sydney Johnson added game-high 12 points. Shore finished with 11 points and six rebounds.

Sullivan chipped in eight points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals.

Borchardt made a pair of 3-pointers and finished with eight points, four assists and four steals.

“I think from a confidence standpoint, it was important to get a win,” said Egan. “All the credit goes to the girls for keeping their heads up through this difficult stretch.  This team is determined to be a contender in this conference and have continued to work to do so.”

Hillsboro traveled to Royall Tuesday night and will next travel to New Lisbon Friday night.

“I think we are playing our best basketball right now which is all I can ask for,” added Egan. “These girls have worked hard to improve and give me their best effort every day at practice. I think that’s why we’ve been able to compete with some of the best teams in the area as of late.

“Considering all the adversity these girls have to overcome with a new coach, new offensive and defensive systems, and team chemistry with all the different grade levels, having a winning record is pretty impressive. However, I know these girls aren’t satisfied with where we’re at. They want to take that next step where we beat the good times, not just compete with them.”