The Richmond Hill High School girls' basketball team over came a slow start to beat host Lee County 40-27 on Friday in the first round of the state Class AAAAA tournament.

The win advances RHHS to a second round matchup Monday at Drew.

"Last night at Lee County we started out very slow," RHHS coach Sarah Brown said. "At halftime we were up 14-12. After halftime the girls came out with a lot of energy and really worked hard. We were in a little foul trouble in the 3rd quarter and Ciara Patrick stepped up in that situation."

Patrick ended the night with 13 points, and nine boards, including five offensive rebounds, as the Lady Wildcats pushed their second-half lead to as many as 15 points. 

"I am very proud of the girls for their accomplishments and how hard they have worked this season," said Brown, a former Richmond Hill standout who is in her first season.