Danville moves on to 3A finals

A member of the Danville student section gives Ashley Nance a big hug after the Lady Hawks 56-41 win over Sumter County Wednesday night. Nance finished with 19 points and 13 rebounds. | Brent Maze

BIRMINGHAM – Danville withstood a third quarter comeback from Sumter County to defeat the defending state champions 56-41 Wednesday night in the Class 3A girls semifinals at the AHSAA Final 48.

The Hawks were led by Kayloni Cross in the first half and Ashley Nance in the second half. Cross started the game on fire hitting four 3-pointers in the first half. Nance finished it off in the second half scoring tough baskets against the Sumter County defense.

“Once I hit that first one, that gave me the confidence to keep shooting,” said Cross, who finished with 18 points.

Nance did her part leading the Hawks with 19 points and 13 rebounds.

Danville coach Paul Wilson said Nance hasn’t been intimidated by the spotlight of the Final 48.

“She’s stepped up her game as we’ve gotten closer to the end,” Wilson said. “Some players back off when they get close to the end, but Ashley has stepped up her game.”

Celese Sharbutt also contributed a big game with 8 points and 10 rebounds. She was followed by Lacey Evans with 4, Haley Garnett with 3, Rochelle St. Amand with 2 and Nyleena Cross with 2.

Sumter County was led by Juanice Newton with 15 points followed by Doretha Holloway with 11 points and 6 rebounds.

The Lady Hawks out-rebounded their opponents 47-34.

Danville will play Madison Academy in the Class 3A Championship Game Saturday at 9 a.m. in the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Arena.