Girls can’t overcome early barrage

A barrage of three-pointers put the Cameron County girls’ basketball team in a deep hole Wednesday night. Despite a valiant comeback, the Red Raiders fell short against visiting St. Marys Public, 51-38.

Lauren Pelgrin sank four treys in the first quarter, as the Dutch exploded for a 19-2 lead. Cameron County (3-5) cut the margin to just six points in the fourth quarter, but could get no closer.

“That first quarter was what got us,” said Raider coach Pat Lewis. “I’m proud of the way the girls responded and worked hard.”

Jess Ellenberger scored 13 points, while Whitney Lewis had eight points and 10 rebounds for the hosts. Shelby Summers (8 rebounds, 6 points) and Bethany Dunsmore (4 steals, 4 points) also contributed.

On Monday night, the Red Raiders made a successful home debut, dispatching the Ridgway Elkers, 55-34. Kristin Sestina hit eight of 12 shots from the floor in scoring 18 points, while grabbing 13 rebounds. Whitney Lewis canned four three-pointers and scored 13 points. Molly Fragale had four steals.

Cameron County’s press rattled the Elkers in the first half and the shots were falling on the other end.

“We hit several outside shots, which opened up the inside game,” Lewis said.

Last Friday, the Raiders played good defense at Galeton, but closed out their long string of road games with a 37-28 setback. Lewis led the attack with four three-pointers, while Sestina had 10 rebounds and seven points.

Postseason honors given to athletes

Jordan Crane was presented with the Rick Wilk Award as offensive player of the year, while senior John Malizia was recognized as top defensive player as the Cameron County Quarterback Club awarded its annual postseason football honors. Cody Andrus earned the Tom Chadwick Award as most improved player. The Tom Malizia “54” Award went to senior Chad Schatz.