Newton’s eight 3s propel Stanhope Elmore past Wetumpka

Senior guard Aubrey Newton turned a regular Tuesday night into a statement performance for Stanhope Elmore, hitting eight 3-pointers to steer the Lady Mustangs to a victory over Wetumpka on Jan. 13. Newton’s long-range barrage accounted for at least 24 points and set the tone from the opening minutes, forcing Wetumpka’s defense to adjust and opening opportunities for her teammates.

The scoring outburst had an immediate effect on the game’s flow. Every time Newton connected from beyond the arc, Wetumpka was forced to close out harder on the perimeter, which created driving lanes and kick-out passes that the Lady Mustangs used to maintain offensive balance. Defensively, the need to rotate toward Newton’s shooting allowed Stanhope Elmore to generate transition chances and control the glass on several key possessions.

Stanhope Elmore’s performance against a familiar county rival was a reminder of how a single hot hand can change a matchup. Newton’s three-point volume altered Wetumpka’s defensive plan, shifting the contest from an inside-out battle to one that increasingly relied on perimeter discipline. That strategic reaction costs teams – defenders are often late to help, rebounding responsibilities change, and opponents find mismatches in the paint. Millbrook fans saw those effects play out as the scoreboard margin widened in crucial stretches.

For the Lady Mustangs, Newton’s outing is significant beyond one win. As a senior leader, her production in late-season play helps solidify team confidence heading deeper into the January schedule. Local supporters will note that timely long-range shooting can be a difference-maker in area matchups where defenses tend to be closely matched. Wetumpka, meanwhile, will have to decide whether to tighten perimeter coverage or risk leaving shooters open in future county games.

The game also matters for community engagement. Strong individual nights like Newton’s draw more fans to the gym, boost momentum for underclass teammates learning in high-pressure moments, and raise the visibility of Stanhope Elmore programs across Autauga County. For Millbrook students and families, the victory provides a midseason highlight and a reminder of why high school basketball remains a central part of winter nights in town.

Our two cents? Come see the Lady Mustangs play if you can. Hot-shooting seniors like Newton make for entertaining games, and supporting the team now helps build the depth the program will need when postseason stakes arrive.