By Shannon Fagan, WEIS Sports Director

CEDAR BLUFF – For the past five games, the Sand Rock Lady Wildcats have struggled shooting the basketball.

That trend continued a bit in the first half at Cedar Bluff on Tuesday, but some key shots began to fall for Sand Rock in the third quarter.

Maddie Clanton tossed in 16 points and grabbed nine rebounds, and Macey Pruitt posted 14 points and nine boards in leading the Lady Wildcats to a 49-40 area victory.

“We finally executed what we talked about doing,” Sand Rock coach Lisa Bates said. “When we executed what we were supposed to do, we had some good shots and we started hitting a few that helped break it open.

“We have struggled the last five games to hit shots. It’s just been painful, but I’m glad we hit a couple of key shots in the third quarter that helped break it open.”

Sand Rock (12-6) held a 14-11 advantage at the end of the first quarter and a 28-26 edge at halftime. The Lady Wildcats went on a 15-9 run in the third to take a 43-35 lead into the final quarter.

Kylie Vadon led Cedar Bluff (16-3) with 18 points, 11 rebounds, three steals, a block, and an assist. Ciana Smith rang for 12 points, had six boards and a steal. Janaya Higgins finished with six points, nine rebounds, and a pair of steals.

Paitlyn Hughes added eight points Sand Rock. Hadlie Weaver had six points and seven rebounds.

Sand Rock hosts Cherokee County on Thursday. Cedar Bluff is at Pleasant Valley on Friday.