Published on: Thursday, February 28, 2013

By Brandy L. Simms

GAITHERSBURG – The two-time defending Maryland 4A state champion Gaithersburg Lady Trojans opened the postseason Monday by posting a 76-68 home victory over Wootton in double overtime.

Gaithersburg, who registered their 19th win, was led by junior forward Janessa Fauntroy who finished with a game-high 27 points and 20 rebounds.

“She stepped up big time,” said Gaithersburg head coach Adrian “Hotdog” McDaniel, whose program is seeking its third consecutive state crown.

Fauntroy, who showcased deft rebounding skills around the basket throughout the game, nailed a 3-pointer with 13.3 seconds left in the first overtime session to help keep the Trojans’ season alive. Fauntroy’s basket tied the game at 62-62 and helped force double overtime.

 “She always asks me ‘Coach can I get a three? And she got her three,” said McDaniel. “She hit a big shot and then she hit some big layups down the stretch. She came through big.”

Gaithersburg senior guard Deja Rollins finished with 17 points and Stephanie Pantos added 11 points.

Meanwhile, Sarah Wallerstedt led four Wootton players in double figures with 17 points and Sophie Ellis finished with 14 points. Ellie Kobylski and Sheri Addison each scored 12 points for the Patriots who finished the season at 16-7.

“Wootton came to fight,” said McDaniel. “They came to play. [Wootton head coach ]Maggie [Dyer] does a great job.”