Owen jumped to an early lead and held off a determined Polk County to eke out a 56-52 win Friday in Western Highlands Conference girls basketball action in Swannanoa.

The Warhorses (2-9, 1-0) rode the hot hand of senior Chesney Gardner, who poured in 32 points. Gardner scored 20 of those in the first half as Owen built a 34-24 lead at the half.

But Polk County (5-4, 0-1) fought back in the second half and forced Owen to hit foul shots down the stretch to preserve the win. The Warhorses were 10-of-18 at the foul line in the fourth quarter.

Olivia Overholt had 12 points, seven rebounds and four assists for Polk County, with Ansley Lynch adding eight points and five rebounds and Mariah Overholt scoring eight points.

Kristen Hall had six points and five rebounds, with Marissa Twitty adding five points and five rebounds and Tori Thompson scoring five points.

Emmie McDowell added four points, with Sara Muse and Rachael Davis each scoring two.

The Wolverines are slated to return home Tuesday to host Avery, as WHC play continues.

– Submitted by PolkSports.com