From Staff Reports



MOUNTAIN BROOK — The proverbial glass slipper stayed on the collective feet of Gardendale’s girls hoops squad long enough to get them past ninth-ranked Mountain Brook last Thursday. But it didn’t stay put for an encore on Saturday.

The Rockets fell victim to a hot shooting night by Rebel guard Kathleen Smith, as well as 30 turnovers to lose 41-30 in the championship game of the Class 6A Area 12 tournament at Mountain Brook.

The loss sends Gardendale (14-16) into a sub-regional matchup at third-ranked Hoover on Thursday night. Tip-off is at 7 p.m.

Smith finished with 17 points, which included four 3-point baskets. She earned the tournament’s MVP award.

Sydney Smith and Jennifer Bragg each scored eight points to help Vestavia.

Both teams suffered from poor shooting. The Rockets hit 9 of their 30 attempts for 30 percent, while the Rebels were only slightly better at 10-of-30 (30 percent).

Taylor Powell led Gardendale with 11 points for the night.

Vestavia (16-14) will host Pelham in a sub-regional game on Thursday.