The recent girls’ basketball match between Kingston High and Saugerties proved to be a highly competitive event, ultimately resulting in a 66-32 victory for Kingston. Despite this impressive win, veteran coach Steve Garner has expressed some reservations about scheduling Saturday afternoon games in the future, citing concerns about his team’s ability to maintain momentum throughout the match.
From the outset, Kingston exhibited a strong performance, utilizing their trapping defense to force 10 turnovers in the first quarter and secure a commanding 17-5 lead. Led by senior guard Asia Lebon, who contributed a game-high 21 points, the Tigers set a formidable pace early in the game. Junior forward Jasanii Francis-Torres also made significant contributions with 12 points, further strengthening Kingston’s position in the matchup.
However, coach Garner acknowledged that Saugerties’ disciplined defense posed challenges for his team, particularly in the half-court plays. Despite these obstacles, the Tigers managed to maintain their lead, outscoring Saugerties in both the second and third quarters.
Additionally, junior guard Ava Scaturro celebrated her 17th birthday by scoring five of her 14 points in the fourth quarter, further solidifying Kingston’s dominance in the game.
Notably, ten players from the Kingston team contributed to the overall score, showcasing the depth of talent and skill within the roster. Even those who did not score many points, such as senior guard Diamond Banks, received commendation from coach Garner for their exceptional defensive plays.
On the other side, Saugerties coach Mike Melville commended his team for their efforts and resilience in facing tough opponents throughout the week. Despite the loss, Coach Melville expressed confidence in his team’s ability to learn and grow from such challenging matchups, emphasizing the positive impact it would have on their future performances in the Mid-Hudson Athletic League schedule.
Looking ahead, Kingston High is set to face Monroe-Woodbury in an upcoming game on December 19th, while Saugerties will host Roosevelt in an MHAL game on the same day. As both teams continue their season, it is evident that the recent matchup has provided valuable insights and experiences that will undoubtedly shape their performances in the games to come.