Sometimes the Dove Creek High School girls basketball team dominates on the perimeter.
Other times, they dominate inside.
Matching up against Dolores on Feb. 11, the Bulldogs did a bit of both, riding a well-balanced attack to a 49-34 victory.
Utilizing the speed and quickness of seniors Jessica Guynes and Corissa Guynes early in the contest, the Bulldogs jumped out to a 17-12 first-quarter lead on the strength of several fast-break buckets.
“We came out on fire right off the bat, we got some quick steals, and we converted all of them,” said Bulldogs head coach Jim Buffington of his team’s quick start.
Continuing the onslaught in the second quarter, Bulldogs senior Madison Young began asserted herself down low, scoring several buckets on her way to a team-high 15 points.
Also playing well for the Bulldogs was senior Shelbie Knuckles, who shot well and scored 11 points.
Serving as a bright spot for the Bears was senior Brianna Schwartz, who, battling consistent double teams all night, scored a game-high 18 points.
“We were wanting to do a little trap with a point and a wing,” said Buffington, discussing his team’s plan to contain Schwartz. “Sometimes it worked, and sometimes it didn’t.”
Next up for the 14-2 Bulldogs will be a tough home matchup against Nucla on Feb. 14.
“They beat us both times last year and they press a lot, so we need to be able to handle that,” said Buffington.