Two players accounted for all but two of Verbena’s points as the Red Devils topped Chilton County’s girls, 43-36, on Wednesday in the first round of the Chilton County Basketball Tournament.

Marqueska Deramus scored 22 points for VHS, and Lacey Short added 15 points.

Lakeyn Edwards’ two buckets and Hope Driver’s one were the only other scores for the Devils.

Verbena built a 17-8 lead after the first period, but CCHS—playing on its home court though Maplesville is the tournament host—cut the deficit to 25-22 in the third period.

Deramus responded by blocking a shot with about 2:30 on the clock, collecting the loose ball, dribbling down the court and laying it in.

VHS led 33-26 after three periods, but Chilton was within five points in the fourth.

Renee Lewis led CCHS with 12 points, and Keona DeJarnett had 11.

Verbena plays Isabella at 6 p.m. on Thursday with a berth in the tournament finals on the line.