Ashland Arrows Stay Perfect: Hoffman, Lacey Power 8–0 Start With Statement Win Over Clearfork

Written by Wesley Seyfang

Ashland Arrows Remain Perfect at 8–0 Behind Hoffman, Lacey, and Relentless Team Effort

The Ashland Arrows girls basketball team continued its undefeated run in impressive fashion, improving to 8–0 on the season with a statement road win over another previously unbeaten opponent. In a packed gym filled with black and orange, Ashland rose to the moment behind elite defense, explosive offense, and unmatched energy.

Senior Madison Hoffman and junior Kennedy Lacey led the way, combining for 53 of the team’s 63 points. Hoffman caught fire from deep, drilling eight three-pointers and finishing with 29 points, while Lacey added 24 points, controlling the game inside and complementing Hoffman’s perimeter shooting.

Ashland set the tone early, particularly on the defensive end. The Arrows entered the game prepared and confident, and that preparation translated immediately.

“We watched film throughout the week and we knew that we could put it to them,” Hoffman said. “We knew that our defense was going to win us that game, and I think that led into our offense.”

Hoffman’s early shooting barrage was fueled by the team’s collective energy rather than individual rhythm. “It’s the energy that the team brings,” she explained.

“We bring this energy that no team matches… once it gets going, it just feels so good. You just can’t miss.”

Despite the scoring outburst, Hoffman emphasized the unselfish mindset that defines the Arrows.

“That’s crazy,” she said of the duo’s combined point total. “But our whole team—it was a team win. We come out every day shooting before practice and after practice. We just want to win.”

For Lacey, the emotions after knocking off another undefeated team were immediate and overwhelming.

“We’re pumped as a team,” she said. “We knew we had to have awesome defense coming out. Energy was number one from the start, and we got it done.”

The chemistry between Hoffman and Lacey was on full display, and Lacey believes that chemistry makes them a nightmare matchup.

“I would say we’re the most feared duo in the whole OCC,” she said. “We stay after practice, we get here 45 minutes early. It’s just the work we put in together. If one person’s getting guarded, we know to look for the other one.”

Defensively, Ashland executed the game plan to perfection, limiting perimeter looks and controlling tempo.

“We scouted them. We knew they were really good three-point shooters,” Lacey said. “So we knew we had to be up in their face. If they couldn’t get those shots off, we knew we had the game.”

Ball movement and court awareness also played a major role in the Arrows’ offensive efficiency.

“When you swing the ball really fast, someone’s going to be open at some point,” Lacey said. “Our cutting, our court awareness—tonight really showed for us.”

Even in a hostile environment, Ashland never lacked support. The stands were packed with Arrows fans, creating an atmosphere that energized the team.

“Seeing all of our supporters—it’s just awesome,” Lacey said. “They come out to watch us, and we know how to put on a good performance for them.”

Head coach Renee Holt called the matchup a special moment for girls basketball.

“Right before Christmas, two undefeated teams going at it,” Holt said. “I loved how our girls rose to the level. They weren’t nervous. They came out and showed them Ashland basketball.”

The sea of Ashland fans in an away gym was another sign of the program’s growth.

“I always say, build it and they will come,” Holt said. “A couple years ago we saw a lot of losses. For us to still be undefeated—it takes your breath away.”

Holt’s visible emotion on the sideline was intentional, especially in a road environment.

“In an away game, the crowd gets them going and everything’s stacked against us,” she said. “I have to be the hype man, I guess.”

Seeing Hoffman hit eight threes and watching Hoffman and Lacey combine for over 50 points, Holt credited their relentless work ethic.

“They’re the first ones in and the last ones to leave the gym,” she said. “They love the game of basketball, and it’s contagious.”

While the scoring grabbed attention, Holt emphasized that defense remains the foundation of Ashland’s success.

“They’re not only offensive threats—they’re dogs on defense,” she said. “We preach every day that you better show up defensively, and that’s what won us this game tonight.”

Ashland’s ability to pressure, rebound, and push the pace continues to fuel its offense.

“We love to push. We love to pressure,” Holt said. “We’re getting a rebound, getting a steal, and getting out and going. Inside-out threes, layups, and-ones—it’s just fun to win.”

Despite the undefeated start, Holt made it clear the team isn’t satisfied.

“One game at a time,” she said. “We still have a lot to work on, and we’re not satisfied.”

At 8–0, the Ashland Arrows aren’t just winning—they’re setting a standard. With elite preparation, unselfish chemistry, relentless defense, and a growing belief around the program, Ashland continues to show that this run is no accident.