The Southland girls basketball team picked up a big when in a tough atmosphere when it beat Kingsland (12-7 overall, 8-5 Three Rivers) 57-52 on the road Thursday.

McKendry Kennedy had 21 points and Gabby Smith had 17 points for the Rebels (6-9 overall, 6-6 Three Rivers).

“They’re a tough team and we’re ecstatic with this win,” Southland head coach Dean Bendtsen said. “Bri Johnson was phenomenal tonight. She was incredible with defense and on defensive rebidding. Gabby Smith is taking baby steps every game and she made some real nice shots tonight. McKendry [Kennedy] was real clutch at the end of the game and held things together for us.”

Southland 26  31  —  57

Kingsland 17  35  —  52

Southland scoring: McKendry Kennedy, 21; Gabby Smith, 17; Kaysie Allen, 5; Brianna Johnson, 4; Lexi Smith, 4; Lily Riddles, 3; Allison Bottema, 2; free throws: 78 percent (14-18)