The Cougars got off to a slow start, as they fell to the Bengals, 56-45, in the opening round of the Region IV, Division 4 girls tournament Tuesday evening in Bassett.

Bassett (15-8) now faces Salem in the semifinals tonight.

The Bengals jumped out to a 12-7 lead after the first quarter and increased their lead to 23-16 at the half. Both Pulaski County (11-15) and Bassett would score 13 points apiece in the third quarter. However, the Bengals still clung to a 37-30 advantage heading into the final eight minutes of action. The Bengals would control the tempo in the fourth quarter, as they claimed the 56-45 victory and a semifinal date with Salem.

Daisey Ball led Pulaski County with 17 points and nine rebounds. Kasey Holcomb added 13 points.

Julia Scales led Bassett with a game-high 20 points. Iesha Smith contributed 16 points and Diandra Thompson tossed in 10 points.