Beech Tree News Network

MORGANTOWN — Passing its first postseason test, Butler County beat Grayson County 49-37 in the semifinals of the 12th District Girls' Basketball Tournament on Monday, Feb. 21. 

With the win, Butler County advances to the 12th District Girls' Basketball Tournament title game. 

The loss eliminated Grayson County from the girls' high school basketball postseason.

Starting strong, tournament host Butler County outscored Grayson County 9-3 in the first quarter.

The Lady Bears clung to an 18-17 lead at halftime.

Maintaining a one-point lead midway through the second half, Butler County led 29-28 at the conclusion of the third quarter. 

The Lady Bears forced Grayson County to play from behind throughout the final period. 

Finishing strong, Butler County started the fourth quarter on a 9-0 run to move ahead 38-28. 

Gracie Cardwell scored 16 points to lead Butler County to the win. Accompanying Cardwell in double figures for the Lady Bears, Taylin Clark netted 11 points.

The additional scorers for Butler County in the district tournament game included Taylor Leach (seven points), Jaelyn Taylor (six points), Jenna Phelps (five points) and Graci Leach (four points). 

In the opening game of the 12th District Girls' Basketball Tournament, Edmonson County defeated Whitesville Trinity 37-33. 

Butler County is set to meet Edmonson County in the 12th District Girls' Basketball Tournament title game at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24.