TAYLORSVILLE — The Skyline Eagles dominated Kearns right out of the gate in the first round of the 5A State Tournament at SLCC Tuesday night, using a tenacious press to defeat the Cougars 68-37.

"First games are scary," Skyline head coach Deb Bennett said. "We got out with a win and that's what's important."

The transition game was the key for Skyline. The Eagles would attack on Kearns rebounds, not allowing the Cougars to attempt a run game, and they would immediately outlet and race down the court on Skyline boards, resulting in 3-on-1 and even 4-on-1 situations on the other end.

The Eagles jumped out to a 13-2 lead by forcing multiple Kearns turnovers —the Cougars had 21 on the night— and converting them on the other end. Dani Peterson had six points for the Eagles in the quarter, while Shannon DeLaMare put in the lone bucket for Kearns.

"Dani is a real tough match-up for other teams," Coach Bennett said. "She's good inside and out."

The Cougars got an offensive game going in the second quarter, but the transition game was a killer once again as Skyline jumped to a 34-13 lead at the half. Peterson contributed another six points for Skyline, while Upuia Fui added four in the quarter.

"Jenteal Jackson is a premiere point guard," Coach Bennett said. "Whenever you have someone like her running the point, you can get into a good transition offense because she makes things happen."

The Cougars came out playing tough, inspired ball to start the third, eventually outscoring the Eagles in the quarter. Brooke Larsen led Kearns with four points.

The Eagles dominated the fourth with seven different players getting on the board. It was all Larsen for Kearns as she scored nine of the Cougars 13 points in the period.

Peterson had 18 points and 16 rebounds on the night, while Katie Walker had 10 points and Jackson added nine points and five assists. Larsen led the Cougars with 16 points and eight boards.

Skyline takes on Davis in the quarterfinals Thursday at 2:30 p.m.

---

E-mail: hbruce@desnews.com