Free-throw frenzy sinks Raiderettes at Cornersville
9:04 p.m. Jan. 20, 2026
DUANE CROSS
MCO Publisher•Editor
The Moore County Raiderettes mounted a strong second-half rally but could not overcome an early deficit and a decisive free-throw advantage as Cornersville pulled away for a 56-49 Region 5-District 9A victory Tuesday, Jan. 20.
Cornersville set the tone early, jumping out to a 15-4 lead after the first quarter and extending the margin to 27-11 by halftime. Moore County responded with its best stretch of the night in the third quarter, scoring 21 points to cut the deficit to 39-32 heading into the final period.
• Cornersville pulls away late to down Raiders
The fourth quarter, however, was dominated at the free-throw line. Cornersville attempted 22 free throws in the final eight minutes, converting 15 to keep the Raiderettes at bay. For the game, Cornersville went 25 of 39 from the stripe, accounting for 47 percent of its total points.
In the second half alone, Cornersville made just five field goals – only one in the fourth quarter – but attempted 29 free throws and converted 19.
Moore County was whistled for 29 fouls overall, including 19 in the second half, and saw three players foul out: Abbie Bateman, Emmeree Greenway, and Ellie Carter.
Emma Kate Dunivan led Cornersville with 22 points, including a 3-pointer and a 7-for-13 performance from the free-throw line.
The Raiderettes were balanced offensively, led by Emma Dye with 11 points, including a 3-pointer. Emmeree Greenway and Ellie Carter each added nine points, with Greenway knocking down two 3-pointers and Carter adding one from long range.
Ally Sharpe, Bella Tucker, and Abbie Bateman scored six points apiece, while Harley Hart chipped in two.
Moore County converted 4 of 9 free-throw attempts.
With the loss, the Raiderettes fell to 10-7 overall and 1-2 in district. Moore County returns to action at 6 p.m. Friday, hosting Huntland.
