“All but about 10 minutes we played pretty solid,” head coach Justin Butler said. “Especially at the end as they got tired, their youth showed. Got a little quiet, got a little stagnant, started getting out of position and they got punished for it with three quick goals.”

“To see them out there getting the job done and enjoying each other’s company is everything,” Lovingood said.

After a lengthy delay, the goal the rest of the night was simple. Play for No. 34, Laney’s number. It will remain that way all season.

The Wildcats, though, were up to the challenge, taking Mitchell’s best punch before pulling away in the second half for a 44-27 win.