The New Castle High girls basketball team took control from the start.

The Lady ’Canes jumped out to a 14-point lead after one quarter en route to a 63-44 WPIAL Section 3-AAAA win at Shaler.

“That set the tempo,” said New Castle coach Luann Grybowski, concerning her team’s 21-7 first-quarter effort. “We also played well defensively early.”

The Lady ’Canes (7-1 section, 11-3 overall) forced 22 turnovers, owned the rebounding advantage, 28-21, and made 24 of 42 shots from the field.

Shelby Rodgers and Logan Hartman paced New Castle with 18 points apiece. Rodgers chipped in with five assists and five steals while Hartman snared 10 rebounds.

Abby Allen added 11 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and three steals.

Olivia DiNucci led the Lady Titans (3-5, 8-9) with 17 markers.

“I’m pleased with our performance,” Grybowski said. “It was one of our better games this year.”

The Lady ’Canes are ranked fifth in Class AAAA by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.