Photos by Morgen Orr LR's Dayshaun Richbow dribbles by Flora's Bria Kitt. In a match up of two highly regarded teams, Lower Richland (12- 1) dominated A.C. Flora (7- 4) on Friday January 9, 68- 23. Dayshaun Richbow led the Diamond Hornets with 18 points and three others scored at least nine in the blowout.

Lower Richland displayed great patience with the ball throughout the game at Flora. Carefully executing their offense and passing the ball all over the court, the Diamonds were able to find easy shots. In the first quarter, Richbow exploded for ten points, driving to the hoop and converting lay ups at will. The Falcons were unable to get going offensively as the 2- 2- 1 zone press employed by LR was devastating.

In the second quarter, Flora started strong using a 2- 3 zone and defending more aggressively. Jasmine Stubbs scored seven points in the quarter and played hard, keeping the Falcons afloat. But LR continued to pour in points and play tough defense. In particular, a 1- 3- 1 zone with star Morgan Stroman at the top confused the Falcons and forced turnovers that allowed Richbow and Stephanie Hayes easy lay ups. LR led 32- 15 at half.

A.C. Flora's Kim Roach drives to the hoop as LR's Jasmine Harrison trails. The Diamonds broke out in the third quarter scoring 24 more points and putting the game completely out of reach. Four players scored at least four points in the quarter including Jasmine Harrison. Flora simply could not score though Alexis Jacobs did add four points for the Falcons in the third.

Hayes finished off the Falcons with another five- point quarter in the fourth while Flora managed only four points again.

All told, Flora could muster just eight second half points to Lower Richland's 36. It was clear throughout the Falcons missed their star point guard Tiara Knotts who has been sidelined all season with an injury. The Diamonds were too fast and tough in their Region IV- 3A debut.

As three- time defending 4A state champions, it should be no surprise to see Lower Richland do well on the 3A level, but if A.C. Flora cannot stand up to the Diamond Hornets, LR could be working on quite a season in 2008/2009.