Late run lifts Tiders past Woodlawn

Every team in District 1-4A is going to give Minden their best shot.
Woodlawn came out in the first half and gave the Lady Tiders all they could handle before Minden eventually pulled away late, using their patented onslaught to seal a 52-32 district victory over the Lady Knights on the road.
“They were trying to force us to shoot from the outside,” Minden head coach Jacob Brown said. “We did a good job adjusting and showing patience. Early on it was a bit sloppy, but we challenged the girls to pick up their play and they did.”
Minden led 23-22 at halftime, and Brown challenged the Lady Tiders to pick up their play.
“I think we got the message defensively,” Brown said. “we held them to two points in the third quarter.”
Minden went on a few big runs in the fourth quarter to put the game to bed.
The Lady Tiders outscored Woodlawn 21-8 in the fourth quarter.
“Woodlawn threw a few different defenses at us and our girls were able to recognize and adjust quickly,” Brown said.
Starting forward Tayler Banks got in early foul trouble, so Brown called on Shaniah Washington off the bench.
“Shaniah came in and gave us great energy as she always does,” Brown said. “She gave us great minutes.”
Derrica Gilbert dominated offensively, scoring 23 points to lift Minden to their tenth district win of the season.
Janiya Reed scored eight points. Banks and Bre Rodgers each had seven.
Minden is #3 in the 4A state power ratings and plays next at Northwood (14-16, 3-7) on Friday at 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 5 is the rematch between #1 Benton and #3 Minden with a shot at the district title on the line. Minden won the first game between the two teams this season before Benton snatched the last one. Next Tuesday’s game will be the first at The Palace this season.