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The Lady Wildcats overcame some offensive struggles on Monday as Springwood defeated Southern Christian 49-36. 

The Wildcats controlled the game from the opening tipoff and never trailed in the game. Going into the fourth period, Springwood led by 18. The Patriots were able to cut the lead to as little as seven before the Wildcats sealed the game late. 

Tori Patillo left the game in the first half with an injury and was not able to return. Springwood had to dig deep into its bench to fill minutes, and the offense struggled at times with Patillo off the court. 

“I’m a little disappointed with the lack of energy from the girls tonight,” Springwood coach Lisa Sampson said. “Tory going down, I had to have others step up and I really didn’t. We looked slow and just kind of not into it. That’s got to change.” 

Shalexia Little led the Wildcats with 24 points, eight rebounds, six steals and two blocks. Little has quickly turned into one of the best athletes in the county, and she has been able to carry Springwood through rough patches on offense. 

“Lex is one talented player that I’m very lucky to coach,” Sampson said. “She tweaked her ankle a little bit in this game, but she said ‘Coach I want to play.’ That says a lot about her. She’s been a great leader and just talented.” 

Emily Jo Matthews followed Little with 14 points, five rebounds, three steals and one block. Haley Hurst dominated the glass with 12 rebounds to go along with four points. 

The win improved Springwood’s record to 13-3 on the season. The Wildcats are scheduled to face Glenwood on Tuesday, but inclement weather could affect that game.