Monday night, Banks County and Rabun County cruised to first round region tournament wins that secured them both a spot in the state tournament in Class 2A.

The Lady Leopards, ranked #4 in the state, and the #9 Lady Wildcats, have battled for supremacy in Region 8-AA this season, and they are now one game closer to the 8-AA title game.

Banks County beat Oglethorpe 74-18, with Jaycie Bowen leading the way with 17 pts. Maddie Thomas had 13, while Amber Williams closed with 10 pts.

Rabun meanwhile defeated Social Circle 82-52. Georgia Stockton led the way with 28 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals. Laken Stiles tallied a double-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 steals.

The fun begins again Thursday evening at Putnam High School, where the rivals square off in the 8-AA Semifinals! Banks County won both games against Rabun this season.