By Kayley Bruener
The Pendleton County Ladycats opened their 2025–26 basketball season in convincing fashion, securing back-to-back victories to begin the year 2–0.
On December 4, the team traveled to Boone County for their first regular-season matchup and returned home with a dominant 64–34 win. Two days later, they kept the momentum rolling with a 71–57 victory over Raceland on their home court.
Pendleton County dominated the Boone County game from beginning to end, scoring 64 points with a balanced and disciplined offensive effort and shooting an effective 42.9% from the field.
Senior Lilly Ashcraft powered the Ladycats with a standout performance, dropping 18 points on a highly efficient 9-of-13 shooting from inside the arc. Junior Hannah Spaulding followed closely with 15 points and a team-high seven rebounds, providing consistent scoring and key second-chance opportunities. Junior Selena Rarrieck delivered one of the night’s most complete performances with 12 points, including one of Pendleton County’s two made three-pointers, while also going 3-for-4 from the free-throw line. Fellow junior Savannah Rarrieck added seven points and knocked down the team’s other three, while shooting 50% from the field.
Pendleton County continued their strong start on December 6, defeating Raceland 71–57 in their home opener. The Ladycats showcased their growing offensive rhythm, closing out the week with two double-digit wins and building confidence as the season gets underway.
The upcoming schedule presents a challenging stretch, as Pendleton County will hit the road for three straight contests. They travel to Mason County on December 8, with the varsity game tipping off at 8 p.m. The Ladycats then head to St. Henry on December 12, also at 8 p.m. To close out the week, they face Mercer County on December 13 in the Ford Harrod Classic, with game time set for 6 p.m.