Sporting equipment, apparel and footwear retailer Hibbett Sporting Goods, Inc. has published improved financial results for the first quarter ended April 29.

Net sales for the 13-week period increased 10.5% to $126.9 million compared with $114.8 million for the corresponding period in 2005. Net income for the first quarter increased 7.7% to $11.5 million compared with $10.7 million in the first quarter of last year.

Hibbett opened eleven new stores during the first quarter, bringing its store base to 560 in 22 US states.