La Conner’s full court press paid dividends early as the Braves defeated the visiting Coupeville girls basketball team 53-27 Thursday, Dec. 6.

La Conner (2-1) zipped to a 17-2 first-quarter lead as Coupeville struggled with turnovers against the Braves’ pressure.

Coupeville coach David King said, “What really hurt us all game was not taking care of the ball. In the first half we turned it over 19 times and 35 total for the game. We are rushing and not being patient. Many of the turnovers were us just not taking care of the ball or trying to fit a pass in when there wasn’t a place to make a pass.”

After the rugged first quarter, the Wolves settled in and played even with the Braves in the middle two periods, trailing 28-10 at the half and 37-20 going into the final period.

Hailey Hammer scored 10 of her team-high 12 points in the second and third quarters to help the Wolves keep pace.

Lauren Escalle finished with five points, Amanda Fabrizi and Makana Stone three each and Bessie Walstad two.

King said, “Once we get more game experience and cut down on our turnovers we will be right there and give ourselves a chance to win.”

The Wolves (1-2) travel to Cedarcrest (4-0) to begin league play at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7.