The Suffolk Lady Storm won its first game of the season, beating Newport News 28-23, in the Optima Girls Basketball Fall League at the J.E. Parker Recreation Center in Portsmouth.

Suffolk took control in the second half with a strong team defensive effort, pulling away from a very stubborn Newport News team.

The Lady Storm had six players in the scoring column led by Harper Birdsong’s eight points and Kara Lyles with seven points. Down 19-18, Aneka Yelverton hit a jump shot off a set play from the end line to give the Lady Storm the lead for good.

Suffolk plays its final regular season game against Virginia Beach on Saturday before heading into local and regional tournaments in the Optima league.

The Optima Girls Basketball Fall League is for ages 11-14. Along with having basketball teams in each Hampton Roads city, the league teaches girls about health, education and safety throughout the season.