LAPLACE – The East St. John Lady Wildcats look like a team on a mission.

Taking on Higgins in a bi-district volleyball playoff opener on Saturday, the Cats were impressive in storming past the Hurricanes, 25-21, 25-22, 25-19.

The win boosts East St. John to 24-7 on the season, but more importantly, moves them to the rest of the Division I state playoff action, which begins at the Pontchartrain Center on Thursday.

Against Higgins, the Cats came out with the intensity head coach Sandi Stein says it will take for a long run in the playoffs.

“I was really impressed with how poised they played. It was like they knew this was the playoffs and they were ready to take on the challenge,” she said. “The way we handled the pressure of a big match is the way we have to be at the Pontchartrain Center. It was a good sign.”

Ashlee Cooper, the 6-5 front line hitter for the Cats, had another big game to lead the team with 15 kills.

Kierra Joseph had 19 digs and Maira Harris topped the team with 21 assists.

Darielle Sanders offered some solid support with 12 digs, while Dianna Lainez had six kills and Avingnon Williams had five kills.

“Even though we started a little tight in the match, it was an extremely well played match for the most part,” Stein added. “I think we’re ready for the challenge the rest of the playoffs.”