SALINA, Kan. — No. 25 Hutchinson (27-5) got its first win against Seward County (22-10) this season thanks to Tor'e Alford's double-double.
The third-year sophomore tied her career high with 26 points and nabbed 14 rebounds. She also stole the ball five times as Hutchinson forced 14 turnovers.
Two of Alford's most-exciting points came on a controversial play to end the first half.
Hutchinson held a three-point lead with 1:15 left in the half before that lead was pushed to five and eventually seven at the break after a buzzer-beater from Alford.
With two seconds left before the half, a Seward heave from the baseline was stolen away at half court by Ziya Simms. She tipped the ball to herself and fired a pass to Alford at the free-throw line. The turnaround jumper dropped as time expired.
Officials initially counted the basket, but Seward protested and the play went under review. It didn't seem possible that the tip, steal, pass and turnaround jumper could have elapsed in only two seconds, but officials upheld the play and the Dragons went into the locker room up 46-39.
Mya Williams took over in the third quarter by scoring 14 of her 27 in the period. She just missed a double-double with nine rebounds.
Sierra Lynch kept the Lady Saints close with her 27 points.
Hutchinson outrebounded Seward 51-39.
Sydney Wetlaufer went 0-1 in the first half but scored 14 in the second half for Seward. Her three with 3:15 left pulled Seward within one.
Hutchinson iced the game at the free-throw line where the Dragons shot 78.3% on the night.
FINAL: Hutchinson 92 Seward County 84
Alford notched a career high for free throws made and taken (13 of 14).
Kalyn Ervin added 12 points for the Dragons.
Hutchinson will face Barton Saturday night in Salina for the Region VI Championship.
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