Violet Silvia scored 21 points to lead Portsmouth to a 54-47 win over North Kingstown in a girls basketball playoff game Saturday night at North Kingstown High School.

The sophomore standout was the catalyst for a Portsmouth offense that built a 21-18 halftime lead and never looked back. Gyselle Mairs added 16 points and Annie Hurd chipped in 11 for the Patriots, who improved to 14-4 on the season under coach Frank Brow.

North Kingstown, coached by Matt Kalin, fell to 15-4. The Skippers were unable to overcome a second-half deficit despite a strong postseason push throughout the regular season.

Portsmouth advances to the semifinals, where the Patriots will face Westerly.

Photos by Justin Walker/What’sUpNewp

Justin Walker is a Newport County native who specializes in sports, portraits, weddings and events as a freelance photographer around New England. Justin has over a decade of experience starting in college covering high profile events, collegiate and professional sports in Washington, D.C. His photojournalism and freelance work can be seen in various local and national publications. Check out his work at justinlwalkerphotography.com!