In a quarterfinal matchup of the 2025 KHSAA Sweet 16, the Danville Christian Lady Warriors take on the Henderson County Lady Colonels at Rupp Arena on March 14 at 6:00 PM. This game pits Danville Christian’s high-octane offense against Henderson County’s stingy defense, promising an exciting clash of styles as both teams vie for a spot in the semifinals.
Team Overviews
Danville Christian (26-7)
The Lady Warriors have dazzled this season with a potent offense, averaging 62.5 points per game across 33 contests. They punched their ticket to the quarterfinals with a 53-40 victory over Daviess County in the Sweet 16’s first round. Their résumé also boasts the All “A” Classic Statewide Tournament title, where they defeated strong teams like Walton-Verona, Metcalfe County, Crittenden County, and Bethlehem, proving their mettle in high-stakes situations. With a 15-1 region record and an RPI of .62871, Danville Christian has dominated their competition, including a 12th Region championship run with wins over Pulaski County, Southwestern, and Rockcastle County.
Henderson County (28-5)
The Lady Colonels have been a defensive juggernaut, holding opponents to just 42.5 points per game over 33 games. They advanced to the quarterfinals by stifling Marshall County 45-30 in their Sweet 16 opener. Henderson County’s 13-0 region record and .67706 RPI reflect their consistency and strength, bolstered by victories over quality opponents like Owensboro, McCracken County, and Elizabethtown. They also claimed the Lady Invitational of The South tournament title and secured the 2nd Region crown with wins over Lyon County, Hopkins County Central, and Crittenden County.
Key Players
Danville Christian
- Paisley Metz (Jr.): Leads the team with 14.3 points per game, excelling from beyond the arc with 96 three-pointers made at a 37.4% clip. Her 41.9% field goal percentage adds versatility to her scoring.
- Alaya Quisenberry (Sr.): Averages 13.6 points per game, shooting 39.8% from the field, and contributes 6.2 rebounds per game, making her a well-rounded threat.
- Grace Mbugua (Sr.): A potential X-factor, averaging 22.3 points and 13.6 rebounds per game in her 16 appearances, with an impressive 53.7% field goal percentage. Her availability could tilt the game inside.
- Amauri Blackford (So.): Chips in 11.6 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, shooting 46.7% from the field, providing a strong presence in the paint.
Henderson County
- Brooklyn Gibson (Jr.): The standout scorer at 13.4 points per game, Gibson is highly efficient, shooting 56.4% from the field and 42.5% from three (45 of 106). She also grabs 4.5 rebounds per game.
- ATylia Green (Jr.): Averages 12.7 points per game with a 43.2% field goal percentage and 29.4% from three, adding 4.0 rebounds per game to her balanced attack.
- Allyson Rideout (Sr.): Contributes 12.0 points per game, shooting 45.5% from the field and 31.0% from three, while leading the team with 5.0 rebounds per game.
Statistical Breakdown
| Category | Danville Christian | Henderson County |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 62.5 | 58.3 |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 47.7 | 42.5 |
| Field Goal % | 40.1% | 45.5% |
| 3-Point Field Goal % | 29.5% | 32.8% |
| Free Throw % | 57.3% | 66.1% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 34.7 | 24.0 |
- Offense vs. Defense: Danville Christian’s 62.5 points per game will challenge Henderson County’s defense, which allows just 42.5 points. Conversely, Henderson County’s 58.3 points per game face a Danville Christian defense conceding 47.7 points.
- Shooting Efficiency: Henderson County holds a clear edge, with a 45.5% field goal percentage and 32.8% from three, compared to Danville Christian’s 40.1% and 29.5%. The Lady Colonels also shoot better from the line (66.1% vs. 57.3%).
- Rebounding: Danville Christian averages 34.7 rebounds per game, potentially giving them an advantage over Henderson County’s 24.0, which could lead to second-chance points.
What to Watch For
- Gibson vs. Danville’s Defense: Brooklyn Gibson’s efficiency inside and out could exploit any defensive lapses by Danville Christian. Her ability to stretch the floor with 45 three-pointers may force the Lady Warriors to adjust their strategy.
- Mbugua’s Impact: Grace Mbugu’s dominance in the paint (22.3 points, 13.6 rebounds) could overwhelm Henderson County’s interior defense, especially given their lower rebounding numbers.
- Three-Point Battle: Both teams have shooters—Metz has 96 threes for Danville Christian, while Gibson, Green, and Rideout combine for 113 for Henderson County. A hot shooting night from deep could swing the game.
- Rebounding Edge: Danville Christian’s potential rebounding advantage might control the pace and provide extra possessions, critical against a defense like Henderson County’s.
- Free Throws in Crunch Time: Henderson County’s 66.1% free-throw shooting could be decisive in a close game, compared to Danville Christian’s 57.3%.
The Stakes
Both teams have battled through tough schedules and regional tournaments to reach this point. Danville Christian’s victories over quality foes and their All “A” Classic triumph highlight their resilience, while Henderson County’s defensive consistency and wins over top teams underscore their preparedness. With a semifinal berth on the line, this game at Rupp Arena will test each team’s strengths and reveal which style prevails.
Final Thoughts
Expect a thrilling showdown as Danville Christian’s offensive firepower meets Henderson County’s defensive might. Can the Lady Warriors break through with their scoring and rebounding, or will the Lady Colonels lock down and capitalize on their efficiency? Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM, and this quarterfinal clash promises high stakes and intense competition.
