Report by Blake Smith
It took some dramatic finishes, but the Melbourne Bearkatz and Lady Bearkatz were able to sweep district championship games played in their home arena on Saturday.
It was the Lady Katz that got things started, facing the Salem Lady Greyhounds. After a tight first quarter, Melbourne created some separation, taking a 28-23 lead into halftime and a 40-35 lead after three quarters.
From there, Salem went on a 10-0 run to start the final period of play before clutch three-pointers from Hallie Weaver and Josie Roark gave Melbourne the lead that they would not relinquish, winning by a final score of 52-47.
Kenley McCarn led the way with 16 points, Jenna Lawrence added 14. The Lady Katz improve to 26-1 and will open regional tournament play Wednesday at 4 p.m.
The Bearkatz had the nightcap in a rubber match against White County Central.
A back and forth first half resulted in a 28-26 lead for the home team, and it only expanded from there, as the Bearkatz pulled away after the intermission to take a 54-40 win.
Layton Hennings led the way with 19 points, Jaxon Sanders added 15.
Melbourne improves to 16-6 and will open regional tournament play on Wednesday at 7 p.m.
