Gap Fends Off Late Cougars Surge

Buffalo Gap opened up a double-digit lead and held on late for a 35-28 Shenandoah District girls’ basketball win over Alleghany on Tuesday night.

Buffalo Gap was ahead early in the fourth quarter before Alleghany made a push behind its outside shooting. Sophie Knighton hit three 3-pointers and Ja’Kara Heighter added another as the Lady Cougars closed to within four, 32-28, with a minute to play.

Alleghany’s comeback stalled in the final 35 seconds with a pair of turnovers and Buffalo Gap converting at the foul line.

Knighton led Alleghany with 14 points despite the Cougars playing without two starters due to injury. Heighter finished with four points, seven rebounds and three assists. Kaydence Bragg grabbed a team-high eight rebounds and dished out two assists, while Ty’Aieja Smith added seven rebounds.

The Cougars will travel to Wilson Memorial on Friday.