Strong start carries Kauai past Kohala, 45-34

Kauai's Marissa Layosa puts up a layup attempt against Kohala in an opening round game Wednesday night. Greg Yamamoto | SL

Kauai is moving on in the Snapple/HHSAA Division II state tournament.

The Red Raiders jumped out to an early 11-3 first quarter lead and never looked back as they fended off Kohala for a 45-34 opening round win at Kalani High's Gymnasium Wednesday night.

Taegen Keep had a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds with seven blocks to power Kauai into the quarterfinals, where it will take on Kalani Thursday at 5 p.m. at the Falcons' court.

Marissa Layosa added 13 points and Monique Tomacder chipped in 12 more to round out the Red Raiders' leading scorers.

Brittany Shimono had a game-high 21 points and Mikayla Kekoa had 10 points and 13 rebounds to lead the Cowgirls in the loss.