BLUFFTON — Host Bluffton opened its run in the McDonald’s Holiday Tournament with a dominant 64-23 win over Cory-Rawson.

The Pirates jumped out to a 9-1 lead after Lauren Dearth knocked down a corner three. Moments later, Blair Utendorf drove the baseline and found Taylin Goldman for a midrange jumper to extend the advantage.

Bluffton’s defense added to the tone early. Maelee Miller picked off a pass, raced the other direction and finished through contact. Her free throw put the Pirates up 14-2.

Cory-Rawson continued to battle, with senior Katelyn Duffman drilling a three from the top of the arc. But Bluffton controlled the rest of the night, punctuated by Gracie Warren’s deep pull-up to beat the buzzer.

Bluffton closed out the 64-23 victory and will face Arlington in the tournament’s title game on Saturday at 6:15 p.m.

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