Sickles girls roll past Gulf Coast, 57-38; advance to regional finals

Despite foul trouble and off shooting nights from several starters, Sickles' Bre Crum helped the Gryphons overwhelm visiting Gulf Coast in the girls’ regional basketball semifinals, with a decisive 57-38 thumping Tuesday.

The victory advanced the Gryphons to the regional final at Clearwater Saturday night at 7, with a state semifinal berth in Lakeland on the line.

The sloppy play worked to Crum's advantage, as she racked up steals and points on fast breaks. Sara Hartman also capitalized on errant Gulf Coast passing for several steals. She hit a three-pointer to end the first quarter that set the tone for the rest of the game.

Sickles' ball-hawking defense, and the offense of  Crum and Hartman, helped the Gryphons pull away to a 30-15 halftime lead.

Amber Henson, who missed her first four shots, was plagued by foul trouble throughout the game. Crum took over, however, driving the length of the floor for an easy layup and assisting Tyeshia Thomas on two baskets as the third quarter expired stretching the lead to 40-22.

Gulf Coast did not go away, closing the lead to 13. But Mariah Cohen of Sickles hit from the outside to quell the comeback.

Crum took it from there, controlling the game with her ball handling and defense.

“I was in the zone," Crum said. "Coach says I am the conscience of the team. I just needed to slow the ball down, distribute and take my shots.”