By RYAN ARENA
L’Observateur

RESERVE — Briana Thompson scored 19 points and grabbed 18 rebounds to lead East St. John in a 60-53 victory over Dominican Thursday at the season-opening Thomas Jefferson tournament.

Kariontae Victor scored nine points. Da’Rae Taylor scored eight points and dished out nine assists.

Dominican led after the first quarter, but the Ladycats took a 26-23 lead into the half. A 19-12 ESJ (1-0) advantage in the third quarter gave coach Jackson Manuel’s team all the breathing room it needed.

Thompson’s performance represented a career-night. She’s part of a frontcourt Manuel believes is the true strength of the team this season.

“That was the best game she’s played for us,” Manuel said. “The rest of our girls stepped up really well.

Da’Rae didn’t have a big scoring night, but she got everyone involved.”

ESJ starts a senior, three freshmen and a sophomore this season.

“We’re a young group, but a very talented one,” Manuel said. “They came up big (Thursday) night.”