Beech Tree News Network

ALBANY — Butler County came up short as Marion County prevailed 96-90 in triple overtime during the opening round of the Best of the Lakes Holiday Classic at Clinton County High School on Tuesday, Dec. 19.

It's the seventh-highest scoring girls' high school basketball game in state history. 

Holding a slim advantage midway through the matchup, Marion County led 36-33 at halftime. 

Butler County shot 31.9 percent (30-of-94) from the field. The Lady Bears made one of seven three-point field goal attempts. 

Butler County shot 58 percent (29-of-50) from the free throw line.

Thriving inside, Butler County pulled down 66 rebounds.

Ann Marie Skaggs scored 28 points and pulled down 14 rebounds to lead the Lady Bears. Skaggs was named Player of the Game.

Following Skaggs in scoring for Butler County, Taylor Leach netted 12 points while Ava Wilson and Parker Willoughby added 11 points apiece.

Giving Butler County five scorers in double figures, Addison Miller delivered 10 points.

Rounding out Butler County's scoring, Maddie Jones, Karrington Hunt and Bailey Moore chipped in six points apiece. 

In addition to Skaggs, Wilson and Miller each logged a double-double. Wilson pulled down 18 rebounds while Miller contributed 11 rebounds. 

Butler County is scheduled to meet Berea in the Best of the Lakes Holiday Classic at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 20.