Lahainaluna turns back Honoka'a, 47-28
By Leila Wai
Advertiser Staff Writer
A sloppy game turned into a tidy victory for Lahainaluna as it defeated Honoka'a, 47-28, in the opening game of the HHSAA/Hawaiian Airlines Girls State Basketball Championships yesterday at the Stan Sheriff Center.
Lahainaluna advances to play O'ahu Interscholastic Association champion and No. 2 seed Kahuku (13-1) today at 2:45 p.m.
The matchup between the two Neighbor Island teams saw a combined 53 turnovers, including 29 by the Big Island Interscholastic Federation's Honoka'a (12-3).
"That was a key to the game," Lahainaluna coach Todd Rickard said. "It was pretty much the point differential. (Because of the turnovers) one team was always pulling away or catching up."
The Lunas (12-4) of the Maui Interscholastic League opened the first quarter by outscoring the Dragons 12-7, led by two 3-pointers by sophomore forward Alise Hatch. Lahainaluna forced seven turnovers, including four steals.
"That was one of our biggest problems throughout the season," Dragons coach Daphne Honma said of the turnovers.
Both teams were held to five points apiece in the second quarter, and Honoka'a failed to score until just about three minutes remained.
"We wanted to keep pushing it and keep scoring," said Lahainaluna junior guard Jessica Maielua. But she said the high-tempo took the Lunas out of their game plan, and they didn't take care of the ball, which stalled their offense.
They got back on track in the third quarter, outscoring the Dragons 13-8.
Their matchup zone prevented Honoka'a from penetrating, and the young Dragons appeared hesitant in taking the outside shots.
"They were passing inside and we were collapsing on defense," Rickard said. "It worked well for us."
The Lunas made 10 of 12 free throws with about two minutes remaining to increase their lead.
"We usually shoot free throws pretty terrible," Rickard said. "But we make it when it counts."
Maielua led Lahainaluna with 11 points, while freshman guard Keisha Kanekoa scored a team-high 10 points for Honoka'a.
"We tried to prep them as best we could, but just being here in this environment, with the pressure and inexperience, a little bit of everything got them rattled," Honma said.
Reach Leila Wai at lwai@honoluluadvertiser.com or 535-2457.
