The Mexico girls really wanted to win Wednesday's game. It was for the right to play for a district title -- something the Lady Bulldogs haven't played for since 2021 -- but they defeated their North Central Missouri Conference arch rival Fulton 51-46 in the Class 4 District 8 semifinals in Fulton.
After winning the first meeting this season against the Lady Hornets 47-29, Mexico (12-15) fell short in the next two games 36-33 and 43-41. The Lady Bulldogs trailed 26-20 at halftime following some turnovers and an 8-0 Fulton run to close the first half.
Mexico responded with a 23-12 third quarter, which included 15 points from Claire Hudson after being held scoreless in the first half. Hudson knocked down three 3-pointers and forced in two 3-point plays in the quarter and finished with 18 points and six rebounds. Karlee Sefrit kept the Lady Bulldogs close with 10 points in the first half and finished with 13 points. Jo Thurman knocked down three 3-pointers for nine points and also had five rebounds and five assists.
Audrey Arnold led Fulton (11-15) with 18 points and five rebounds, Kier Henderson and Deztani Galbreath-Chambers each followed with seven points, and Bre'Awn Richmond had three blocks.
Mexico faces eighth-ranked and conference rival Moberly (25-2) for the third time this season at 6 p.m. Friday, losing two games by double-digits. The Lady Spartans defeated Hallsville 59-32 on Wednesday are coming off a district championship last season.
Look for the full story on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, on the Mexico Ledger website.
