Republic Lady Tigers split holiday hardwood tournament games

The Republic Lady Tigers went 2–2 in the Pink & White Lady Classic tournament at Drury University, defeating Mt. Vernon and Clever, but losing to Springfield Glendale and Skyline. That was good for a sixth-place finish in the tournament.
Republic 64, Mt. Vernon 25
In the tournament’s first round, Republic’s defense stifled Mt. Vernon on the way to a blowout win, 64–25. Republic held Mt. Vernon to 12 points in the first half. Lanney Strong helped Republic get off to a fast start with 11 points in the first half. She had three three-pointers in the first quarter.
Misora Nambara led Republic with 12 points. Strong and Alaina Norman each scored 11.
The Lady Tigers defense held Mt. Vernon to eight field goals in the game.
Glendale 52, Republic 43
In the Pink & White quarterfinals, Republic was unable to find its shooting range from the perimeter. Glendale took advantage of its larger size to win the rebounding battle and extend its own offensive possessions. The Lady Falcons outscored Republic 18–9 in the second quarter to grab a 13-point lead at the half, 30–17.
Republic managed to get the margin back into single digits briefly in the second half, but the Lady Tigers never climbed out of the early hole. Molly Blades led Republic with 18 points. Misora Nambara also had 10 points for the Lady Tigers, who fell into the consolation bracket with the loss.
Republic 68,
Clever 39
In the consolation semifinal, Republic blasted Clever 68–39. The Lady Tigers scored 26 points in the first quarter and never looked back. Four players finished in double figures, led by Misora Nambara with 17. Alaina Norman posted a season-high 16 points. Molly Blades had 12 and Molly Mason had 11.
Skyline 53, Republic 41
In the fifth-place game at Weiser Gymnasium, Skyline got off to a quick start and held on for a 53–41 win. Republic struggled against Skyline’s quick and physical defense, turning the ball frequently in the first quarter. At the end of the first quarter, Skyline was on top 18–12. Republic never got within five points the rest of the way, as Skyline slowly extended its lead throughout the game. Molly Mason was the only Republic player in double figures with 10 points. Skyline improved to 11–1 with the win. Republic finished its tournament with a 7–4 record.