In convincing fashion, the CAM Cougars earned their first home win of the season, 65-36, over the Paton-Churdan Rockets Friday night in Anita. CAM was solid from start to finish as the Cougars dominated the first quarter and never looked back. Ada Hansen used her speed to drive the offense, creating opportunities for herself and her teammates, while Daphna Whalert was money from downtown. On the other side of the ball, the defense was disruptive. Not only did they limit Paton-Churdan’s looks, but they also forced numerous turnovers and got their hands on the basketball, preventing the Rockets from settling into a rhythm. Although the Rockets’ offense improved in the second half, CAM kept their distance as they closed out their second win of the season.

The Cougars flew out of the gate. Scoring 20 points in the first quarter, it was their most dominating frame. Ada Hansen was the driving force of the offense for much of the night. Her ability to use her speed to create opportunities was extremely noticeable. Regardless of where on the floor she picked up the ball, Hansen was able to break away to create opportunities in transition. She scored 14 of her game-leading 20 points in the first half, with eight coming in the first quarter. On defense, the Cougars stifled the Rockets. CAM gave up just three points in the opening period and just 10 in the second. In addition to rebounding well, the Cougars just got in the way of anything Paton-Churdan tried to run. Whether it was getting hands on the ball to force a jump ball, deflecting passes, or causing outright turnovers, CAM gave the Rockets little to work with as they took a 34-13 lead into the half.

The destined outcome of the game did not change in the second half; however, both teams had some positives. Paton-Churdan made adjustments and looked much better in the third quarter, which was their best of the night. Alivya Smith led the way for the Rockets with 7 points in the frame as Paton-Churdan trimmed the deficit down to 12. However, the Cougars would pick things up again, going on a 7-2 run to close the third quarter. Daphna Whalert hit three of her five three-pointers in the second half while Hansen picked up another three field goals. Ultimately, CAM continued to pull away as the game wore on and walked away with their first home win and a .500 record. Head coach Joe Wollum was pleased with his team’s performance, especially their start.

Using the speed of Hansen was part of the game plan that worked to perfection.

Wollum also commented on the success of Daphna Whalert from beyond the arc.

Moving toward the Christmas break, the mantra for this CAM team will be its continue improvement.

CAM now 2-2 will be back in action on Tuesday when the Cougars take on Ar-We-Va. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.