Paintsville head coach Dawn Kinner will lead her team into battle on Monday night when the Lady Tigers invade Russell in the opening round of the state tournament.
The Lady Tigers are coming off a thrilling five-set win over Pikeville in the 15th Regin title matchup.
Hailey Little had 26 kills, two blocks, three digs and five serving aces in a outstanding individual performance in the 25-27, 25-22, 25-20, 21-25 and 15-10 marathon win.
Hadley Hardin followed with 11 kills, two blocks, 16 digs and three serving aces. Bella Blackburn finished with 49 assists and 17 digs.
Blair Ratliff totaled 19 kills and two digs. Mattie Ratliff had 27 digs, Kynzi Slone 21 and Kara Ward 13.
Monday night’s match begins at 7 pm.
Russell is 19-2 and knocked off Rowan County in the 16th Region finals to advance.
Pikeville finished 21-2. The Lady Panthers graduate standouts Kaylee Wells, Riley Tavis and Emily Gearheart.