Girls Prep Basketball: Lady Indians end losing streak

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Du Quoin High School's girls basketball team snapped a five-game losing streak while keeping its record above .500 Monday, defeating host Trico on "Pink Out Night" in Roy Mathis Gymnasium.

The final score was 57-29 as the Lady Indians improved to 9-8 entering Tuesday's home battle against Carterville.

"We just played much better tonight," Du Quoin coach Shawn File said. "We went back to the basics; good defense, transition offense and taking care of the ball."

A flying start certainly didn't hurt matters, either. Notorious for starting slow-especially in games at Trico in the past-the Lady Indians ripped the nets for a 24-4 first quarter lead and were never challenged. By halftime, the margin was 35-9.

Jessica Hirsch was one of three Du Quoin players to reach double figures, scoring 19 points. Steffanie Gates and Keawna Anders each contributed 10 with Rebekah Maddox scoring seven.

"Jessica Hirsch led the team with 19 but really started things off defensively for us. Trico has been a tough place for us to play so coming out quick was important.

The Lady Pioneers (7-12) were led by Beth Daniels' 10 points.

Stephanie Cochran netted seven.

In Monday's preliminary game, Du Quoin (6-6) romped to a 37-10 win, holding Trico scoreless in the second quarter.

Ashley Ward led a swarming Lady Tribe defense with 10 steals while Nicole Jackson added four. All totalled, Du Quoin had 28 swipes.

Taylor King led in scoring with 10, Heather Cavins added seven and Ward six.

Cassidy Rice handed out three assists.

"We played very well," said Du Quoin jayvee coach Jason James. "Ashey Ward came out and set the tone for us defensively. On the offense, we nly had nine turnovers and that's a ton better than normal."