Viqueens win ‘Classic opener
T-G STAFF REPORT
GATLINBURG — It was by no means an offensive masterpiece for the Community Viqueens in Wednesday’s tournament opener in the Smoky Mountain Classic against Soddy Daisy.
Despite a sluggish first half, it was an 11-2 run in the third period that allowed the Viqueens to rally past the Lady Trojans for the 35-32 win.
Both squads were slow out of the gate, with M.J. Simmons recording four of the Viqueens’ first five points in the quarter and despite a slim, 5-4 lead after the first eight minutes, the Lady Trojans rallied for 13 in the second quarter and spread the offense among three players to take a 17-11 lead at the half.
After the intermission, Simmons took control of the game and went for six of her game-high 16 points, including a 2-of-3 free throw effort in the quarter.
Anna Haskins also connected on a key trey to spring the Purple and Gold back in front, 22-19, by the end of the third.
The two teams played each other evenly in the fourth, with both tacking on 13 points, but in the end, it was balanced scoring by Community that secured the tournament win.
While Simmons was the only player to reach double figures against Soddy Daisy, Haley Mitchell was knocking on the door of double figures and added nine for the winners.

Community 5 6 11 13 — 35
Soddy Daisy 4 13 2 13 — 32

Community: M.J. Simmons 16, Haley Mitchell 9, Shelby Cawthon 6, Anna Haskins 3, Addison Brothers.
Soddy Daisy: Alivia Hall 9, Jada Trimiar 8, Hannah Patterson 7, Melody Crawley 3, Cam Varner 3, Abby Faires 2.
3-Point goals: Community (2): Mitchell, Haskins; Soddy Daisy (2): Hall, Crawley.
Halftime score: Soddy Daisy 17, Community 11.