JEFFERSON CITY - The South Callaway Lady Bulldogs basketball team launched the 2018-19 season by confronting the team that spoiled its first-ever appearance in the state playoffs.
Licking outscored South Callaway 11-5 in the fourth quarter of Saturday night's season opener as the Lady Wildcats turned back the Lady Bulldogs 39-36 in the Frisco League/Show-Me Conference Shootout.
Licking prevailed again in the rematch after downing South Callaway 63-53 in the Class 3 sectionals last March in Rolla, handing the Lady Bulldogs their only loss of the season.
The two teams were tied at 12-all after one quarter Saturday night, but the Lady Wildcats outscored South Callaway 13-9 in the second quarter to take a 25-21 edge into halftime. The Lady Bulldogs then rallied in the third quarter, outscoring Licking 10-3 to go in front 31-28.
The Lady Wildcats fended off South Callaway over the final 8 minutes to hold on for the three-point triumph.
"We had to handle the ball well and knew we had to deal with the outstanding intensity that the Licking squad brings to the gym," Lady Bulldogs head coach Darren Humphrey said. "We fell short in accomplishing both of those things."
Sophomore guard Paige Clubb guided South Callaway with 15 points and sophomore forward DeLaney Horstman provided 12.
"I have to give our ladies the credit they deserve, this is a very young team," Humphrey said. "With that being said, I believe this group has the potential to do great things in the upcoming season.
"Though small in (roster) numbers, they showed that they have the potential to be in every game and they will push themselves to the very limit."
Kaylee Holland sparked Licking with a game-high 18 points and Abby Moncrief added 11. Holland scored 15 points in the Lady Wildcats' sectional victory over the Lady Bulldogs.
"We knew we had to stop their guard play," Humphrey said. "Kaylee Holland is an outstanding athlete and has the potential to put her team on her shoulders when it is needed.
"By picking off numerous passes, Licking was able to convert on the other end, with Holland receiving credit for most of those baskets."
South Callaway travels to North Callaway for the Ladybirds' season opener at 6 tonight.