The Lake Belton freshman Red girls' basketball team faced a tough challenge on Monday night, falling to a dominant La Vega High squad 64-21. Despite the lopsided score, Simone Jefferson delivered an impressive performance, leading the Broncos with 17 points and providing a bright spot in an otherwise difficult game.

La Vega came out strong from the start, using their size and speed to establish an early lead. Their aggressive defense forced turnovers and limited Lake Belton’s scoring opportunities, while their transition offense quickly turned mistakes into points. By the end of the first quarter, La Vega had built a commanding 22-4 lead.

The Broncos found some rhythm in the second quarter, largely thanks to Jefferson’s determination and scoring ability. The forward showed her versatility, driving to the basket with confidence and sinking mid-range jumpers to give Lake Belton a spark. Jefferson scored 10 of the Broncos’ 13 first-half points, but La Vega’s relentless attack kept the game out of reach.

Heading into the second half, Lake Belton continued to battle, with guards Olivia Hernandez and Maya Wilson working hard to create opportunities against La Vega’s stifling defense. Despite their efforts, La Vega maintained control, extending their lead with efficient ball movement and precision shooting.

La Vega’s defensive pressure and depth were key to their victory, as they consistently forced turnovers and controlled the boards. Their balanced offensive attack featured multiple players in double figures, showcasing their team chemistry and execution.

The Broncos will look to regroup and apply the lessons learned as they prepare for their next game. Despite the setback, the team remains focused on improvement and continuing to build on the season’s foundation.