By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The Helena girls basketball team picked up a big win against one of the top teams in the state on Tuesday, Jan. 5, defeating the Central Falcons 40-33 to improve to 11-6 overall and 2-1 in area play.

When the Huskies and Falcons met earlier this season, Helena committed numerous turnovers and didn’t have a solid overall game in the loss.

Helena head coach Alan Skinner said his team discussed that game and watched film over Christmas break to try and correct mistakes heading into the rematch.

“It was a culmination of fixing a bunch of little things,” said Skinner. “That game right there was huge for our program. If there’s one thing that Central does well, it’s rebounding the ball. They are so aggressive on the glass but I think that was one of our better games rebounding to this point.”

Both teams struggled to score points in the first half but the game remained close as Central took a 17-16 halftime lead.

Helena’s Jenn Brown led all scorers with 20 points and Helena used a strong second half to pull away with the victory. Jordan Jones also added nine points for the Huskies.

Central’s Jada Prewitt and Latasha Maddix each finished with 10 points in a losing effort.

Helena’s next opponent will be Friday, Jan. 8 at Calera where the Huskies will attempt to pick up another area victory.