The saying that practice makes perfect became a reality for the third- and fourth-grade Twisters on Saturday at Holcom Park Center.

A week’s worth of practice devoted to passing and running the fast break paid off for the Twisters as they defeated the Jayhawks 30-14.

“This past week we spent a lot of time working on passing drills and setting up the fast break,” Twisters head coach Katie Spexarth said. “The girls must have been paying attention in practice, because they were amazing at both today.”

The Twister offense used proper spacing and crisp passing to attack the Jayhawk defense. Emily Robertson led the way for the Twisters, using speed and dribbling to attack the rim. Robertson’s footwork enabled her to find enough spacing near the hoop to dodge the collapsing Jayhawk defense and give the Twisters the early lead.

Helping along with Robertson’s strong play was guard Addison Bollaert. Working at the point, Bollaert set up her teammates near the hoop with fantastic passing. Bollaert’s ability to dribble through traffic forced the Jayhawks to double up on her. After hitting on a couple of outside shots, the Jayhawks were forced to respect Bollaert’s offensive game.

However, the Jayhawks would not go out without a fight. The Jayhawks gained momentum late in the third quarter as Kenzie Darvin laid in the ball as time expired. Looking to build upon the momentum, Jayhawk guard Lousin Holland connected on the team’s opening fourth-quarter possession. Holland provided a spark for the Jayhawks with her defensive intensity. Holland was able to slow the Twister attack with quick feet and positioning.

The Jayhawks receive a last few words of advice before taking on the Twisters Saturday at Holcom Park Center.

Offensively, the Jayhawks were led by Darvin, whose speed and dribbling enabled her to attack the hoop for the easy lay-up. If the shot wasn’t there, Darvin looked to teammate Kepsey Fixico for support down low. Fixico’s size caused problems for the Twisters, as she was able to haul in a handful of rebounds and give the Jayhawks second-chance scoring opportunities.

Unfortunately for the Jayhawks, the Twister offense was overwhelming. After a timeout midway through the fourth quarter, Alex Ewy regained control of the game for the Twisters. Ewy was able to position herself down low for a couple of late baskets and to extend the Twisters’ lead.

Maya Percich solidified the win for the Twisters with her hustle play and ability to attack the basket. Percich set up her teammates for several point-blank shots after driving and drawing the double team. “This team really works well together,” said Spexarth. “Everyone has a role and understands what it is. They are a great team to coach.”