McKenzie Smith was in a zone this week as she and the Loyd Star Lady Hornets collected a 61-46 win over Franklin County in varsity girls action.

Smith, a Co-Lin softball signee, showcased her hard court skills by scoring a game-high 20 points and grabbing nine rebounds, two steals, and blocking a shot in the game Thursday night.

“McKenzie had a good game for us,” said longtime Loyd Star basketball coach Gene “Moochie” Britt. 

Playing power forward, Smith kept Franklin County’s speedy playmakers in the paint as she scored numerous buckets.

 “This was our first game of the season and I was pleased with how we played as a team,” said Britt. “We were 17 for 25 from the free-throw line.”

Lydia Britt added 15 points and three assists. Faith Bergeron also chipped in with 15 points, and also added six assists and four steals.

Loyd Star led 29-17 at halftime, the Lady Hornets added to the lead in the second half.

For Franklin County, Jasmine Treadway led the Lady Bulldogs with 16 points and five steals. Damiesha Griffin added 11 points.

In the boys’ game, the Bulldogs raced out to a 27-24 halftime lead.

Coached by Rickey O’Quinn Jr. the Hoop Dawgs (2-1) were led by John Starks with 14 points. Junior Cameron Young added 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Franklin High stretched its lead to 10 in the second half, collecting a 59-49 win in the contest.

Sophomore Dane Smith led the Hornets with 13 points, seven boards, three assists and three steals. 

Trey Lyons added 12 points, while Cade Hodges had eight points, six steals and two assists.

“We missed entirely to many foul shots,” Britt said. “We have a scrappy team. Franklin County has really good team.”

The Hornets resume play Tuesday at Bogue Chitto at 4 p.m.