AGWSR 40, NEW LONDON 29

Third-ranked AGWSR relied on its strength to win the opening game of the state tournament.

The Cougars lead the state in defense and they shut down sixth-ranked New London in a matchup of unbeaten Class 1A teams Monday, winning 40-29 to advance to the semifinals.

Macy Ubben led AGWSR with 19 points and nine rebounds. The 6-foot-2 senior scored 10 of her points in the third quarter, when the Cougars outscored New London 16-6 to take control of the game.

Cassidy Ringena, who plays at the top of the Cougars' tough 1-3-1 zone, and Jessica McDowell each scored nine points.

AGWSR came in allowing only 21.9 points a game and is on pace to set a state record for defense. Only three teams have reached 30 points against the Cougars, who are in the tournament for the fourth straight year.

Ashley Blint led New London with 12 points. The Tigers made their first trip to state since 1999.

New London stayed with AGWSR through the first half and trailed just 17-14 at the break. But Ubben got free for a couple of baskets inside in the third quarter and scored another bucket after rebounding teammate Megan Pieters' missed free throw.

McDowell banked in a 3-pointer for the Cougars, then scored on a nice turnaround shot to make it 31-18. AGWSR led 33-20 going into the fourth quarter and the lead never fell below eight the rest of the way.

AGWSR advances to Wednesday night's semifinal round with a 24-0 record. New London finishes 25-1.