Larkin's free throws sink Elgin

Larkin's 1-pointers were better than Elgin's 3-pointers.

The Maroons and Royals combined for 30 field goals and 49 fouls Friday night. And while only making 14 field goals, the Royals were able to take advantage of Elgin's fouls by making 25 free throws, resulting in a 56-46 girls basketball win over their crosstown rivals.

The Upstate Eight River triumph at home avenged last week's loss to the Maroons in the Elgin City Classic.

Larkin scored 15 of its 17 fourth-quarter points from the foul line in holding off an Elgin rally led by Kamiya Harvey. Harvey hit three 3-pointers in the period, each one bringing the Maroons within 10 points.

But each time the Royals answered with free throws to maintain a comfortable lead. Haley Bohne led the Royals' free-throw parade, making 5 of 8 in the final period.

Overall, the Royals (4-18, 2-5) made 25 of 39 from the line for the game.

Larkin coach Steve Knapp was happy with the effort, but noted that the Royals still have some things to work on, like quick shots while nursing a double-digit lead.

"We've got to knock down some free throws, and be a little bit smarter on offense," he said. "We've got to slow it down, run some clock. This could be the last time these seniors ever play them, so it's good to get a win, especially at home."

Btrianna Young led the Royals with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Bohne and Aalliyah Dixon added 10 apiece for Larkin.

Dajha Cooper had 18 points and 18 rebounds for Elgin (4-19, 0-8). Harvey scored 12 of her 16 in the fourth quarter and Kylie Graves added 9 points and 8 rebounds for Elgin.

"I thought defensive rebounding in the first half hurt us, they had too many second-chance points," said Elgin coach Dr. Nick Bumbales. "The physicality of the game hurt us a little bit, but some kids had some great games. Cooper, Harvey, Graves, all played really well. (Makenna) Downing did a great job on Young. Graves did a great job on her too. It just wasn't to be."

Elgin was whistled for 26 fouls to 23 for Larkin. But the Maroons couldn't take advantage of Larkin's fouls, making just 11 of 25 free throws. Led by Cooper, Elgin outrebounded the home team 40-32 and held the Royals to 28 percent shooting.

Elgin raced out to a 5-0 lead, but Larkin answered with a 15-2 run to take the lead for good.