Tuesday, November 17, 2009 10:16 pm

Junior Emily Sissom drives up court in action against Bledsoe County Tuesday night. Sissom scored 34 points in Cannon County's season-opening win. (Photo by RONNY BURKS)

PIKEVILLE — Cannon County High's basketball teams both opened the season with big wins Tuesday night, taking a pair of victories at Bledsoe County High School.

Lionette junior Emily Sissom, who has already signed to play at Union University following her senior season, swished the nets for 34 points as Cannon County routed the Bledsoe County Lady Warriors 74-43.

Cannon County led from start to finish, taking a 15-4 lead at the end of the first quarter and extending its advantage to 38-15 at intermission. The Lionettes' lead expanded to 61-26 entering the final quarter.

Taylor King added 8 points for Cannon County, followed by Erica Melton with 7, Abby Jakes and Chelsey Payne 6 apiece, Lindsey Reed 5, Ashley Campbell 4, JoAnna Young and Lauren Ruehlen 2 points each.

The Lions were equally dominating in their 77-53 triumph over the Warriors. A balanced attack was led by Justin Davenport's 18 points, Cody Ruehlen's 16 and T.J. Mitchell's 10.

Cannon County's boys raced out to a 17-9 edge after one period, and led 39-25 at the half. Their lead was 18 after three periods of play.

Jared Nave added 8 points for the Lions, Andrew Woodin 7, Ethan Womack 5, Brad Hutchins 4, Colin Jones 3, Matthew Turney 2, Justin Tobin 2 and Jarrett Melton 2.

Both Cannon County team's will be in road action again Thursday night, playing Tullahoma High. The girl's game begins at 6 p.m.