VH wins 3rd straight

The snowy roads from Deerfield to Vernon Hills delayed the start of Tuesday's girls basketball game by more than an hour.

The time passed very slowly for a Vernon Hills team hoping to extend its winning streak to three games.

"We warmed up, shot free throws; we were so anxious to play," senor guard Mallory Feece said.

The Cougars channeled that energy into a frenetic pace, especially in the first half. Vernon Hills ran more than it has all season, putting constant pressure on Deerfield. The result was a satisfying 56-50 victory.

"The kids were seeing openings and taking them," Vernon Hills coach Paul Brettner said.

Deerfield coach Michael Muldrow tired of watching the Cougars push the ball down the floor for high-percentage shots. Vernon Hills (4-7) also had success attacking the glass and generating second-chance opportunities.

"I was frustrated with our defensive intensity," Muldrow said. "Vernon Hills did a great job pushing it down the floor and getting the shots they wanted."

The Cougars led 31-25 at halftime, which allowed them to overcome a four-point third quarter. Fortunately for Vernon Hills, Deerfield (6-5) managed only six points during this stretch.

Seven of junior guard Alana Coy's 11 points came in the fourth quarter. Her 3-pointer gave the Cougars a 46-38 lead with less than three minutes remaining.

"That boosted all of us up," Coy said. "We just wanted to keep it going."

Feece scored 12 points and often started the Cougars' fast break. She had 9 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals, as well.

"She always goes one speed and that's pedal to the metal," Brettner said. "She can rebound and go the length of the court."

Sophomore forward Jessica Schwartz had 12 points and 9 boards.

"She had her shot blocked early but she didn't go into a shell," Brettner said. "She came back strong."

Deerfield's Kathleen Forrest had a team-high 12 points.

"We're playing better and better," Brettner said. "I think we're turning a corner."