NATCHEZ — The Natchez Lady Bulldogs wasted no time Friday night in improving their record on the season to 13-0.

The Lady Bulldogs jumped out to a 41-16 halftime lead over Jim Hill and never looked back in a 67-41 victory.

The Lady Bulldogs defense was the key to the victory as Natchez forced numerous Jim Hill turnovers, many of which led to easy fast-break baskets on the other end.

“When you play good defense, it has a tendency to spark your offense,” Natchez coach Sue Johnson said. “On the other hand, when your defense isn’t playing well, it can hurt the offense. It can frustrate you when the other team is making those easy baskets.”

Natchez led 60-26 at the end of the third quarter and Johnson emptied the bench in the fourth quarter, which made the final score a bit closer.

Alia Frank did it all for Natchez on Friday, grabbing rebounds, scoring points and playing great defense.

Frank finished with 20 points on the night despite not playing a majority of the fourth quarter, and despite suffering a slight knee injury last week.

“It bothered her against Terry (on Tuesday) but she came back strong tonight,” Johnson said. “She’s getting her confidence back. I was real proud of her tonight. She did a great job.”

Frank was joined by two teammates in double figures. Tori Paxton had 14 points while Ebony Stewart chipped in with 13 in the win.

Jim Hill was led by Carmen Smith with 14 points while Brittany Wilson scored 10.

Johnson gave credit to the team chemistry that has led to Natchez’s great start.

“Words can’t express how proud I am of them,” Johnson said. “You can have five stars out there, but if they don’t work together, forget it.”