The Courier-Journal had the GRC Lady Cardinals ranked second in the state in the preseason rankings. However, their season-opening game would be no push-over, as GRC hosted the third ranked Sacred Heart Valkyries.

Wednesday night’s game got off to a hot start with both offenses scorching the net. Sacred Heart took a quick lead, but senior Hayley Harrison would give the Cards all of the momentum as she successfully converted a four-point play.

From there on, the Lady Cards’ offense couldn’t be stopped, and GRC held an 18-16 lead after the first quarter.

The second quarter saw the Lady Cardinal defense take control of the game. GRC allowed only nine points, while maintaining their offensive showcase, and led 37-25 at halftime.

GRC shot an astounding 71% from three in the first half, while Sacred Heart made only 13%.

The second half saw much of the same as the Lady Cards continuously pushed the tempo, finding open shots while doing so.

GRC’s defense allowed no easy shots either, holding Sacred Heart to 11% from three-point range in the half.

The Lady Cardinals would go on to secure a 77-62 win.

Kennedy Igo would finish with 26 points, making six of seven three point attempts, and converting 56% of her shots from the floor. The junior guard also had five assists and three steals.

Harrison added another 18 points, shooting 50%.

Senior Maleaha Bell secured the post with 14 points and four rebounds.

Overall, GRC put on a show in their opener, scorching the Valkyries with their up-tempo offense and physical defense.

This Lady Cardinal team is definitely one to watch in the coming months.