The Lady Hilltoppers narrowly defeated J.P. Case Middle School yesterday 32-30 in Flemington.
The game was back and forth with 8 lead changes before the Hilltoppers took the lead for good on a 2-pt conversion by Charlotte Yarnall (2027) off an inbound underneath late in the 3rd quarter.
The game started very even with J.P. Case trailing 6-5 in the first when they went on an 8 point run to take the lead 13-6. The Hilltoppers chipped away at that margin with two consecutive baskets by Yarnall followed by a series of strong drives to the net by Chloe Jacobson (2028), resulting in many free throw opportunities.
The Hilltoppers went on to outscore J.P. Case 11-7 in the 3rd quarter, with important baskets by both Chloe and Hannah Jacobson (2028), Yarnall and Emma Ryan (2027).
Ryan continued strong play in the 4th driving to the net through traffic and converting the basket, but was hit hard and had to exit the game. No foul was called.
In the final moments of drama, Yarnall hit a 3-pointer to put the Hilltoppers up by 4, then C. Jacobson also drained a 3-pointer on the following possession to stake a 7 point lead. The Hilltoppers clung to the lead as J.P. Case ended with consecutive scores, but ultimately ran out of time.
The team will play a huge game against Warren in a battle of top 3 teams, tomorrow, Friday 1/6 at LCJSMS at 4pm.