Southern Sports & Travel

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:43:09 PST

Cater signs with Hinds Community College

Chase Cater from Riverfield Academy has signed to play baseball at Hinds Community College. Seated: Angie Cater (mother), Chase Cater, Gary Cater (father) and Riverfield head baseball coach. Standing: Hinds head coach Sam Temple and Tyler Ogden, Riverfield assistant coach.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:47:39 PST

Marshall pair inks with Mississippi Delta

Elgin Lafever, a senior outfielder for the Marshall Academy Patriots, signed a baseball scholarship Friday, Feb. 3, with Mississippi Delta Community College. Pictured at the ceremony in the school library are (seated) Elgin Lafever with his parents, Johnny and Suzanne Lafever; and (standing, from left) his brother, Mitchell Lafever, head coach Michael Avalon of the Delta Trojans; head coach Bart Jenkins of MA; and his grandmother, Carol Jean Taylor. Classmates and fellow Marshall athletes were also on hand for the scholarship signing.

Evan Hickman, a senior pitcher for the Marshall Academy Patriots, signed with Mississippi Delta Community College to play baseball. Pictured at the ceremony are (seated) Evan Hickman with his mother, Lisa, and his grandfather, James Bell; and (standing, from left) his brother, Everett “Blue” Hickman; his father, Gary Hickman; head coach Michael Avalon of the Delta Trojans; head coach Bart Jenkins of MA; and his uncle, Rick Hickman. Classmates and fellow Marshall athletes were also on hand for the scholarship.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:26:56 PST

Cenla quarterback signs with Louisiana College

Cenla quarterback Graham Kelly has signed a letter of intent to play football at Louisiana College in Pineville. Graham earned All MAIS, All District, Louisiana All Star selection and a Military.com All American honor this past season. In Graham's two seasons as a starter at Cenla he threw 54 touchdowns and accounted for nearly 6,000 all purpose yards.

Graham is pictured above with his father Marc and mother Michele.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:51:39 PST

Want to win a state title? Just beat Leake

Southern Sports & Travel

There’s not much debate about the strength of girls basketball this season, particularly in Class AA where some argue that six teams have a legitimate shot of winning a state championship later this month in Grenada. Leake and Brookhaven have dominated the state title landscape to the tune of winning twelve of the last thirteen state championships and with girls’ basketball rightly taking center stage this season all eyes will be focused on the possibility of a newcomer laying claim to the trophy.

While so much anticipation is directed towards this season’s state tournament it would be appropriate to use several metaphors when describing the task at hand for those squads wishing to hoist that hardware in late February.

“They’re in a league of their own”, “The big enchilada”, “Time to take it to the next level” or “Time to step it up” are a few that come to mind but one metaphor that may be more fitting this season is “The elephant in the room.”

That “elephant in the room” is none other than the Leake Rebelettes who have quietly gone about building a 29-2 record and sit atop the Class AA rankings.

Sometimes context is needed to fully understand Leake basketball.

Tucked away in the countryside of Madden, Mississippi sits arguably the most successful basketball program in the history of the MAIS and the state. There are no fancy restaurants, hotels or golf courses and very little media coverage but what does exist is a pride and knowledge of the game that is matched nowhere else. When teams see Leake take the court they’re not just facing a basketball team, they’re facing a team that extends to the stands and all the great teams that preceded them. They’re facing history and tradition unmatched in the MAIS.

A win over a Doyle Wolverton coached basketball team is something to be proud of whether it’s during the post season or regular season but it’s a feeling not too many have enjoyed over the past 37 years. In his 1,373 games as Leake head coach only 178 times has an opposing coach left the court with the feeling that he or she bested Wolverton. That domination also extends to the girls’ junior varsity program where the numbers are staggering. In 36 years of coaching junior varsity Wolverton has on been on the losing end just 59 times and in an amazing run from 2002-2007 the Leake Rebelettes junior varsity program went 108-0.

Time for another metaphor, remember the “Be like Mike” Gatorade commercials featuring Michael Jordan? Youngsters all over started drinking Gatorade in an attempt to “Be like Mike” but it also helped bring to the forefront the hard work being like Mike would involve. In the realm of girls’ basketball in the MAIS the metaphor “Be like Leake” would be appropriate and would serve other basketball programs well to study the template that the Leake basketball program has laid out that extends beyond just the varsity level.

In less than one week the North AA State Tournament begins in Batesville and Leake will begin a run at an unprecedented seventh consecutive state title and when their opponents see the Rebelettes take the floor they’re not facing just the 2011/12 Leake squad, they’ll be facing the rich tradition and tenacity that includes such players as Susan Byrd, Kristin Caldwell, Greggina Tadlock and Jenny Wilbanks.

No other team in the MAIS has won more Overall (5) and State (13) titles in the past 26 years and now that the regular season is over Leake sits in a familiar position atop the Class AA rankings. Some have the feeling that with all the attention directed towards others in Class AA the Rebelettes could be just a bit more motivated to remind everyone why they’ve been the dominant power in MAIS girls’ basketball.

So, you want to win a state championship?

All you have to do is beat Leake……….

Note: Head coach Doyle Wolverton has been voted "Coach of the Year" twenty five times and is the winningest coach (girls' and boys') in the state of Mississippi with 1,195 wins. He is ranked third in the nation in girls' victories needing just 23 wins to move up to 2nd.
>Former Leake Rebelette Susan Byrd (87-90) holds the career scoring record at Leake with 3,187 points. Byrd, who went on to play at Ole Miss, also holds the most points in a season record at Leake with 995. Jenny Wilbanks, who graduated in 2011, fell just four points short of Byrd’s record with 991 in her senior season.
>Current player Hannah Peoples entered this season at #12 on the Leake all-time scoring list and has moved up considerably at this point in the season. Peoples is a junior.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:09:35 PST

Columbia Academy junior qualifies for Indoor Track Nationals

Submitted to Southern Sports & Travel by Columbia Academy

Columbia Academy junior Jon Luke Watts has qualified for the Emerging Elite 2-Mile Run in the New Balance Indoor National Championships in New York City on March 9th. Watts met the national qualifying standard in the prestigious Jimmy Carnes Indoor Youth Meet at the University of Florida on January 29th. He needed to run at least 9:03.00 in the 3000 Meter Run to make the cut. In a field of 27 top runners, Watts finished 4th crossing the finish line in 8:59.44 to assure him a coveted spot at the National Championships.

Columbia Academy distance coach Duane Powell said that this was a big day for Columbia Academy. “It’s a big deal to have a runner represent you at the National Championships. After the Cross Country season, we put together a plan to go to Nationals. Jon Luke stuck to that plan working extremely hard, and he made it. We are very proud of him,” said Powell.

Watts kicked off the indoor season winning the 1600 and 3200 meter races at the LSU Indoor Track Classic on January 6th and 7th. He dominated the 3200 Meter Run finishing 10 seconds ahead of the second place runner with a National Elite time of 9:56.21.

The 1600 posed a perfect scenario with Watts the winner of the 3200 and New Orleans runner Thomas Miller winner of the 800 (2:00.60) matched with 13 other top runners. Watts took the lead on the second lap with Miller on his tail. Knowing that Miller being a 800 runner would have a strong kick at the end, Watts picked up the pace, but couldn’t open much of a gap. However, Watts matched Miller’s kick, stride for stride, and crossed the finish line 0.46 of a second ahead to take the win with a personal record of 4:32.29.

On Saturday, Jan. 14th, Watts turned in an awesome performance in the Arkansas Indoor Invitational at the University of Arkansas. This is considered one of the top-5 most competitive high school indoor meets in the nation. Watts finished 5th out of 52 runners in the 3000 Meter Run with a National Elite time of 9:03.40. He missed the Nationals’ qualifying standard by a mere 0.40 of a second.

Watts wrapped up his regular indoor season Saturday, Feb. 4th winning the 1600 and 3200 races in the Cowboy Indoor Invitational at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. He took the lead on the second lap of the 1600 and pulled away from the pack finishing 9 seconds ahead of second place with a personal record of 4:31.90.

It seemed that the 3200 might be a close one as Walker, Louisiana runner Brady Warren held a narrow lead over Watts with 4 laps to go. Watts took the lead with 3 1/2 laps left, slowly pulled away, and used a blazing kick to finish 10 seconds ahead with 10:02. 87.

Coach Powell said that Watts will now focus on preparing for Nationals. “We have a month to get ready, and I believe he can drop his time significantly. He’s a fine Christian athlete and will represent CA, MAIS and Mississippi well,“ said Powell.

Crain reaches 800th win

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 23:14:40 PST

Simpson head basketball coach James Crain reached the 800 win mark last Thursday night in a 47-43 victory over Porter's Chapel. Crain is in his 31st year and is among only three active high school coaches in Mississippi with 800 wins.

Over his 31 years Crain has won five state championships and averaged 26 wins per season.

Coach Crain has guided this season's Simpson squad to a 23-6 record and #4 ranking in Class AA boys basketball. Simpson finished the regular season in the top spot of District 4AA with a 7-1 mark.
Crain is in his second season at Simpson and led the Cougars to the 2011 Class AA State Championship game where they fell to Marshall.

Coach Crain is pictured with his wife Kathy.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 21:14:40 PST

Marshall's Gilliam signs with Northwest Mississippi

Chelsey Gilliam, a senior at Marshall Academy, recently signed a fast-pitch softball scholarship with Northwest Community College in Senatobia. (In front) Chelsey Gilliam is pictured with her parents, Jimbo and Mary Beth Gilliam, and her grandmother, Barbara Gilliam (far right). In back, from left, are coach Susan Rodgers, LuAnn Gibson, coach Rose Kalisak (Gilliam’s summer competitive team), coach Marcus Moore, coach Carlton Gibson and Northwest coach Mike Rowan.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:07:36 PST

East Rankin tallies huge road win

Southern Sports & Travel

East Rankin was just two weeks removed from dropping a 78-66 loss at home to Hillcrest after yielding a six point halftime lead. Last night the third ranked Patriots went into intermission holding a six point lead once again but unlike the January 19 encounter East Rankin controlled most of the second half en-route to an 82-77 win over second ranked Hillcrest.

East Rankin got 31 points and 11 rebounds from senior guard Tyler Rhodes and the Patriots hit on 12/15 free throws in the fourth quarter to improve to 20-6 overall and 8-3 in district play. With the win East Rankin pulled to within half a game of Hillcrest who slipped to 8-2.

(Above) East Rankin senior Tyler Gray worked the paint for 18 points on the night

Hillcrest, whose last loss was a three point decision to top ranked Jackson Prep on December 10, will finish out district play next week with road games at Parklane and Jackson Prep. East Rankin will close out their district play on Tuesday when they host Copiah.

Facing the toughest week on their schedule that featured road games with the top two teams in Class AAA East Rankin let it be known that they’ll be in the hunt as post season play nears. The Patriots held a 25-24 halftime lead over top ranked Jackson Prep on Tuesday night but depth played a critical role in the second half as East Rankin fell 74-59. Last night East Rankin led all but thirty seconds of the second half in earning a big road win.

East Rankin wasted little time in getting out to a lead. Tyler Rhodes’ assist to Justin Laster gave the Patriots a 7-0 lead just over two minutes into the contest.

Hillcrest would get on the board at the 5:27 mark as Malcolm Hopkins drained a 3-pointer from the top of the key. The Cougars would pull to within one point at 11-10 on Lee Ogletree’s basket, plus one, and would take their first lead of the night at 12-11 on a Kenneth Davis steal and lay-in with 3:31 left in the quarter.

The Hillcrest lead would be short-lived as Tyler Rhodes (Photo left) converted on a strong drive to the basket, plus one, to give East Rankin control at 14-12. East Rankin looked primed to carry a 24-22 advantage into the second quarter but a 3-pointer from the wing with 3 seconds remaining would give Hillcrest their second lead at 25-24 after one quarter of play.

East Rankin produced a 7-1 run in the first two minutes of the second quarter to take a five point lead at 31-26. After Hillcrest narrowed the margin to two points at 33-31 on a Lee Ogletree offensive rebound and put back at the 4:31 mark the Patriots answered with a 7-0 run, capped by Jacob Weldon’s 3-pointer, to take their biggest lead of the night at 40-31 with 3:36 left in the quarter.

Hillcrest closed the half with a Kenneth Davis offensive rebound and put back at the buzzer to trim the deficit to 44-38 at intermission.

(Above) Justin Laster (#23) of East Rankin converts in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter

Hillcrest exploded in the first minute of the third quarter. Lee Ogletree converted in the paint and Robert Johnson canned two free throws to pull the Cougars to within two points at 44-42 and at the 7:05 mark Hillcrest took the lead at 45-44 on a Kenneth Davis lay-in, plus one, to cap a 7-0 outburst.

Hillcrest maintained that lead for thirty seconds as East Rankin countered.

Two Tyler Gray baskets in the paint quickly provided the Patriots a 48-45 lead at the 5:41 mark and East Rankin would build a seven point cushion at 58-51 on two Tyler Gray free throws with 1:46 left in the quarter.

Hillcrest closed out the third quarter in the same manner they closed the first two, with a basket at the buzzer. Lee Ogletree converted in the paint at the horn to keep Hillcrest close at 62-58 after three quarters of play.

(Above) Lee Ogletree (#44) of Hillcrest looks to penetrate the East Rankin defense

Hillcrest would pull to within one point at 62-61 to start the final quarter but the Cougars would see East Rankin put up a 13-4 run over the next four minutes in building a 75-64 Patriot lead.

Hillcrest would get no closer than five points as East Rankin hit 9/10 free throws in the closing 2:58 to secure an 82-77 win.

Tyler Rhodes led East Rankin with a game high 31 points, Tyler Gray added 18, Jacob Weldon 14, Caleb Bedford 10, Justin Laster 5 and Phillip Parker and Brylan Overby 2 each.

Hillcrest (22-3) was led by Kenneth Davis and Lee Ogletree with 29 points each, Malcolm Hopkins 9, Grant Baker and Robert Johnson 4 each and TJ Knowles 2.

East Rankin will travel to Tri-County this afternoon while Hillcrest hosts Bowling Green.

Post Game with East Rankin head coach Michael McAnally

Overall & State Championship Basketball Teams

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:38:09 PST

Information has been pouring in regarding past MPSA/MAIS State and Overall basketball championship teams. Please take a look at the links on the left side of the website and email aafandaman@yahoo.com or text/call 985-750-3455 with any information you may have about any of those teams.

I've received some great information and personal stories about some of those teams and they've been very helpful.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:16:23 PST

It's official, McKenzie signs with Commodores

Trinity standout Jaborian "Tip" McKenzie signed a letter of intent today to play football at Vanderbilt University. McKenzie is expected to play slot receiver and return kicks.

Pictured seated above: Katina Veals (Mother), Tip McKenzie and Shedrick McKenzie (Father)

Standing: Trinity assistant head coach Richie Spears.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:28:34 PST

From the Notebook.........

>Links to past Overall Champions and State Champions in all classes have been posted on the right side of the website. Ultimately the plan is to attach footnotes to each team with small tidbits of information such as some of the players and coaches who were part of each particular squad or high scorers in title games. With each year that passes more and more information is lost. If anyone wants to contribute any info on a team they are familiar with please email aafandaman@yahoo.com so it can be added.

>It’s been a several years since we’ve seen this much parity in girls basketball, more so amongst Class AAA and AA squads. Brookhaven is coming off an incredible 2011 run and had reeled off eight straight wins against Class AAA opponents dating back to last season’s Overall Tourney before falling to MRA this past week. Bowling Green made the drive to Jackson earlier in the month and picked off Jackson Prep and Kirk pulled an upset of Class AAA third ranked Pillow on Saturday. The past nine Overall Tournaments have resulted in five Class AAA, three Class AA and one Class A champion. Picking a clear cut favorite for the Overall Tournament beginning on February 27 will be a tough task but Starkville sure has the swagger of front runners. The Lady Vols are the total package in all phases of the game but throw together the top five or six teams in classes AAA and AA and you have yourself a donnybrook.

>It would easy to assign the term “pressure packed” to the upcoming Class AA North State Tournament to be held in Batesville in two weeks, more specifically on the girls side. Five of the top seven teams in Class AA will be amongst those assembled to decide which four will advance to the state tournament in Grenada.

In the south both Brookhaven and Bowling Green are heads above the best squads in their region but there is a stark contrast with regards to their counterparts in the north where a bevy of talented teams exist.

If the North State Tourney started today a round two “go home” game between top ranked Leake and fifth ranked Kirk would take place. It’s unfathomable to think that Leake, winners of six straight state titles, or Kirk, coming off a big upset win over Class AAA third ranked Pillow, could see their season end.

Of course of all this is conjecture at this point as seeding will not be determined until after next week’s district tournaments but there will be some sweaty palms and butterflies will be plenty when crunch time comes calling.

>A great way to show support for MAIS basketball players for the upcoming four week tournament season is through a player ad on Southern Sports & Travel. More people will see a player ad on Southern Sports & Travel in one 24 hour period than will see during most tournament programs for the length of that tournament. Click on the player sample ad on the right side of the website for design and rate information.

>During the January 26 meeting of the MAIS Athletic and Activities Committee a motion to move fast pitch softball to the spring failed to garner the required votes.

>The Track Committee recommended adding pole vault and triple jump to girls’ events for the 2012 track season. The committee also recommended changing hurdle heights to match the National Federation heights.

>The Southern Sports & Travel All MAIS basketball teams will be announced immediately following the Overall Tournament as will the Player of the Year for girls and boys.

God is great!

.See ya somewhere…….

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:58:17 PST

Brumfield inks with Pearl River CC

Jake Brumfield of Adams Christian has signed a letter of intent to play baseball at Pearl River Community College.

(Above) Left to right: Stephanie Brumfield (Mother), Jake Brumfield, Spanky Brumfield (Dad)

Standing: Kyle Lindsey (PRCC pitching coach), Josh Hoffpauir (PRCC head coach), Hunter McKeivier (Adams Christian head coach)

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 22:28:16 PST

Starkville too much for Presbyterian

Southern Sports & Travel

The Starkville Academy Lady Vols knew all too well the perils of tangling with a wounded and dangerous opponent as they made the three hour trek south to Hattiesburg to take on Presbyterian Saturday afternoon. Presbyterian, playing without one of the better players in the MAIS in Trista Magee, battled the top ranked team in Class AAA to a three point game by halftime but second half turnovers and a big fourth quarter from Starkville paved the way for a 56-38 road win for Coach Glenn Schmidt’s Lady Vols.

Presbyterian got off to a steady start as the Lady Bobcats put up a 4-2 lead two minutes into the opening quarter behind two buckets from Monica Breland but Starkville would take their first lead of the afternoon on an April Burney 3-pointer from the key and a 10 foot baseline jumper from sophomore Sallie Kate Richardson at the 5:32 mark for a 7-4 advantage.

(Above) Starkville sophomore Sallie Kate Richardson (#24) led all scorers with 17 points

Presbyterian quickly put up five unanswered points to retake the lead at 9-7 but top ranked Starkville finished the opening quarter strong.

April Burney canned a 3-pointer from the corner to give Starkville the lead at 10-9 and following a Presbyterian turnover Nora Kathryn Carroll drained a 3-pointer from the top of the key at the 2:54 mark to extend the spread to 13-9. Anna Prestridge capped an 8-0 Starkville run with two free throws to end the quarter with the Lady Vols holding a 15-9 edge.

Starkville threatened to pull away from Presbyterian in the early stages of the second quarter. Tiffany Huddleston’s driving lay-in at the 5:51 mark gave Starkville a 19-11 lead but the Lady Vols couldn’t shake Presbyterian.

The Lady Bobcats got a basket in the paint from Molly Speed followed by Hannah McCarter’s shot off the glass from close range to pull PCS to within four points at 19-15 with 4:16 remaining in the half.

(Above) Monica Breland (#24) of Presbyterian attempts to shoot over Starkville's Nora Kathryn Carroll

Presbyterian would cash in on a Starkville turnover and close to within two points at 21-19 on two Monica Breland free throws at the 2:08 mark.

Anna Lea Little sank two free throws of her own to give Starkville a little breathing room at 23-19 with just under two minutes left in the half and the Lady Vols would take a narrow 23-20 lead into the locker-room after Presbyterian’s Landon Garner hit on one of two free throws to close out the scoring in the first half of play.

The first three minutes of the third quarter would prove to be a precursor for Presbyterian as the Lady Bobcats had four turnovers on their first four possessions and Starkville capitalized in a big way.

April Burney drilled a 3-pointer from the wing and then had a halfcourt steal and lay-up to give Starkville a 28-20 lead with just over two minutes gone in the quarter.

Sallie Kate Richardson took advantage of another PCS turnover as the sophomore center hit a turnaround jumper from 8 feet to give the Lady Vols a ten point lead at 30-20.

Starkville capped a 10-0 run on Nora Kathryn Carroll’s 3-pointer from the corner to give the Lady Vols a 33-20 lead and force Presbyterian into a timeout with 4:51 left in the quarter.

Presbyterian came out of the timeout and promptly went on a 12-5 run to close the deficit to 38-32.

(Above) Starkville's Tiffany Huddleston (#21) rips down a rebound in the second half

A Sallie Kate Richardson offensive rebound and put back with 33 seconds on the clock enabled Starkville to take a 40-32 lead into the final quarter.

Any hope in Presbyterian making a fourth quarter charge was quickly dashed as Starkville exploded with a 12-0 run to start the final quarter. Anna Prestridge’s 15 foot jumper would cap the run at the 4:15 mark and give Starkville their biggest lead at 52-32.

Starkville dominated on the defensive end as the Lady Vols held Presbyterian to just one basket through the first six minutes of the final quarter and improved their overall record to 27-3 and 11-0 in district play with a 56-38 win.

Starkville was led by Sallie Kate Richardson who had a game high 17 points, April Burney added 11, Anna Lea Little and Nora Kathryn Carroll had 7 each, Tiffany Huddleston 6, Anna Prestridge 4, and Lauren Atwell and Julianne Jackson with 2 apiece.

Monica Breland led Presbyterian with 15 points, Molly Speed chipped in with 12, Hannah McCarter had 6, Reagan Dykes and Hannah Sellers 2 each and Landon Garner 1.

Starkville will host Heritage on Tuesday while Presbyterian (17-7 & 5-4) will entertain Parklane.
.

.Post Game with Starkville head coach Glenn Schmidt

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:46:28 PST

Four Copiah standouts sign with Co-Lin

Seated from left are Co-Lin signees from Copiah Academy: Elizabeth Cliburn, Meghan Johnson, Kacie Berry and Morgan Brown. Shown with the athletes are Co-Lin head softball coach Allen Kent, left and Copiah softball coach Terry Bauer.

Courtesy of The Copiah County Courier

Copiah Lincoln Community College head softball coach Allen Kent announced the signing of four Copiah Academy standout players on Tuesday. Pitcher Meghan Johnson, catcher Kacie Berry and outfielders Elizabeth Cliburn and Morgan Brown round out the quartet joining the Lady Wolves.
"I've been watching these players for many years now, and we're glad they've decided to be a part of our program. Not only have they enjoyed success in school ball, they've continued to improve with travel ball, as well," Kent said.
The players were part of this past season's AAA state championship team.
Johnson was 19-4 with a save in 2011. Her 1.88 ERA led the team. In 130 innings pitched, she gave up only 108 hits, 60 runs and 37 walks. She struck out 56 and gave up no home runs. She allowed opponents a meager .214 batting average. At the plate Johnson hit .374 with 10 doubles and 2 triples while driving in 35 runs. "Meghan has several pitches in her arsenal that are very effective against good opponents. She is a welcome addition to our pitching staff. And, she fields her position well," Kent stated.
Berry hit .362 and finished with 12 doubles and 23 RBI's. In the field she had 20 assists and a .971 fielding percentage. "(Kacie) is athletic, has a strong arm and handles the catching duties very well. We are looking for her to possibly call many of the pitches. At the plate, we know she is capable of putting up good offensive numbers, too," Kent said.
Cliburn batted .381 in an injury-limited senior season. "When she's healthy, she's really a tough out," Kent said.
Brown blistered the ball with a .407 batting average in 2011. She hit safely 55 times and drove in 24 runs. At centerfield, she garnered 38 put outs, 7 assists and a .957 fielding average. "Morgan is another slapper with great speed. She moved to the left side of the plate last summer and made a nice transition," Kent noted.
Kent is entering his tenth season as head coach of the Lady Wolves. His squads have earned playoff berths in 7 seasons and have been ranked nationally for 8 years. Kent has coached three teams to state titles and has earned 2 region titles. In 2006, the Lady Wolves roared to a third place finish in the National Tournament, with the help of three former Lady Colonels–Jackie Stowe Johnson, Holly Pyles Bridges and Annie Selman Delaughter. In 2008, the Lady Wolves earned national runners-up, the highest by any Co-Lin team in any sport in school history.
"We are excited to have these players join our program. We've had good success with Copiah grads in the past and feel like we'll continue that with this bunch," Kent said.
The Lady Colonels are coached by Terry Bauer, who has won two state state championships (2004, 2011) in softball one (2011) in baseball.
Johnson is the daughter of Bruce and Selena Johnson of Crystal Springs. Cliburn is the daughter of Steven and Stephanie Cliburn of Hazlehurst. Brown is the daughter of Michael and Stacy Brown of Byram. Berry is the daughter of Jeff and Tracy Berry of Hazlehurst.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:53:48 PST

Myers signs with Southwest

Harley Myers of Russell Christian has sign a letter of intent to play softball with Southwest Mississippi Community College.

Myers is pictured above with parents Tim and Angela Myers; Standing: Russell Christian softball coach Larry Lippert and and Southwest coach Sha Johnson.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 13:46:49 PST

Simpson late surge tops Wayne in overtime

Southern Sports & Travel

In there were any questions as to how big Friday night’s District 4-AA matchup between fifth ranked Wayne and sixth ranked Simpson was look no further than Simpson head coach James Crain after the game. Crain had just watched his team win a 58-53 overtime thriller in a game that the Cougars trailed the majority of.

“We needed this win,” said Crain. “If we lost tonight we would probably have had no chance at a #1 seed heading into the tournament.”

Simpson junior Josh Hankins poured in 18 of his 20 points in the second half and overtime and the Cougar defense played a huge role in wearing down Wayne during a critical fourth quarter stretch. “We did well with our pressure defense and I think that played a part in the late stages of the game in Wayne getting worn down,” said Crain.

(Above) Josh Hankins (#23) of Simpson battles for a second half rebound

Simpson would take a 2-0 lead on two Garrett Taylor free throws one minute into the game but the Cougars wouldn’t see the lead again until nearly the end of regulation as Wayne looked sharp on both ends of the court from the onset.

Simpson had no answer early on for the combination of point guard Tim Coaker and forward Toby Roach as the two seniors worked the inside-out game with effectiveness. Coaker’s assist to Roach gave the Jags their first lead at 4-2 and Wayne finished the first quarter with a 6-0 run to take a 16-7 lead into the second quarter.

Simpson’s cure for cold perimeter shooting was clear, drive to the basket. Garrett Taylor’s driving lay-in, plus one, got the Cougars off to a solid start to begin the second quarter and Simpson narrowed the deficit to five points at 20-15 on Andrew Berry’s drive with 4:25 remaining in the half but Wayne finished strong. Toby Roach’s basket in the paint, plus one, helped the Jags close the quarter with an 8-4 spurt to go up 28-19 at the half.

Wayne looked ready to widen the gap in the third quarter as they answered Simpson basket for basket in the early stages but with the Jags enjoying a nine point cushion at 32-23 and 5:31 left in the quarter Simpson started warming up from the perimeter.

Walt Prince drained a 3-pointer from the wing and at the 2:12 mark Garrett Taylor knocked down a 15 footer from the baseline to pull the Cougars to within four points at 34-30. Prince hit another 3-pointer with one minute left in the quarter to cut the margin to 36-33 but Wayne closed out with an Austin Willey basket and a Tim Coaker free throw to take a 39-33 advantage into the fourth quarter.

Simpson had little success in getting closer than six points during the first four minutes of the fourth quarter and after a Tim Coaker drive gave Wayne a 46-39 lead Simpson was in danger of losing twice to the Jags in two weeks.

(Above) Simpson's Tyler King (#25) drives to the basket in the second half

All was about to change. Simpson closed to 46-43 as Josh Hankins hit on one of two free throws and Garrett Taylor knocked down three free throws after getting fouled attempting a 3-pointer.

After Toby Roach hit a free throw Simpson pulled to within two points at 47-45 as Hankins hit two from the charity stripe with 2:49 remaining in regulation and Simpson tied the game at 47-47 on two Garrett Taylor free throws following a Wayne turnover at the 2:20 mark.

Wayne quickly regained the lead at 48-47 as Tim Coaker hit the front-end of a one & one but Simpson countered with an Andrew Berry bucket in the paint forcing Wayne to call time-out with 43 seconds remaining in regulation and down 49-48.

The Jags missed a lay-in with 21 seconds left but regained possession and Tim Coaker would be fouled on a drive in the paint sending the senior to the free throw line where he canned both free throws to give Wayne the lead at 50-49 and forcing a Simpson timeout with 13 seconds left.

Josh Hankins' drive to the rim missed but the junior pulled down the offensive rebound and was fouled with 2.3 seconds remaining. Hankins then hit the first of two free throws but missed the second sending the game into overtime tied at 50-50 as Wayne was unable to get a shot off with 1 second left.

Hankins more than made up for the missed free throw as the junior picked up a driving basket, plus one, to start the four minute overtime period to give Simpson their biggest lead of the game at 53-50 with 3:09 left in overtime.

The Cougars expanded their lead to 55-50 as Joshua Broadhead stole the ball at halfcourt and drove in for a score with 1:23 remaining.

Wayne’s only basket in the overtime period came with 43 seconds left and Hankins sealed the deal with two free throws in the closing seconds to give Simpson a big 58-53 district win.

(Above) Simspon coach James Crain yells out directions in the closing minutes

“When you shoot 5/25 in the first half you just have to come out after halftime and simply make shots,” said Simpson head coach James Crain. “We did that and we executed well down the stretch.”

Crain’s post-game appearance was in stark contrast to his pre-game appearance as the long time coach looked as if he himself had played but there was no hiding his satisfaction in getting the win. “This was our biggest home game this season and the atmosphere was the best. We appreciate our students coming out and supporting us.”

Simpson was led by Josh Hankins with 20 points, Garrett Taylor added 16, Walt Prince had 9, Tyler King 8, Andrew Berry 4 and Joshua Broadhead 2.

Toby Roach led Wayne with 20 points, Tim Coaker and Austin Willey had 13 each, Brett Chandler 5, Garrick Malone 3 and Brent Graham 2.

Simpson improves to 18-5 overall and 4-1 in district play. The Cougars will host Laurel Christian on Tuesday.

Wayne slips to 16-5 and 5-2.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 11:12:28 PST

Simpson remains perfect in district

Southern Sports & Travel

Auguste Knight and Brittany Gardner each scored 13 points to lead tenth ranked Simpson to a 66-38 win over Wayne last night in Mendenhall. Eleven Simpson players scored as the Lady Cougars tightened their grip on District 4-AA in improving to 5-0 with three district games remaining.

Simpson raced out to an early 9-2 first quarter lead fueled by Auguste Knight’s 3-pointer and fast break basket with just over four minutes played in the quarter. Wayne managed to get within four points at 11-7 on a Kelsie Heinkel basket but the Lady Jaguars were no match for Simpson, who have won six of their last seven games.

(Above) Brittany Gardner (#34) of Simpson does damage in the paint

Simpson produced an 18-2 run that started at the end of the opening quarter and was capped off by two Abby Dunston free throws at the 5:22 mark of the second quarter to give the Lady Cougars their biggest lead at 29-9.

Simpson started the third quarter with a 37-20 advantage and outscored Wayne 18-2 in the quarter to take a 52-22 lead en-route to the win.

Auguste Knight and Brittany Gardner led Simpson with 13 points each, Hallie Stubbs and Natalie Sullivan had 6 apiece, Lauren Griffin and Kasey McWilliams 5 each, Lacey Thames, Micah Windham and Madelyn Cliburn 4 each, Abby Dunston and Callie Martin 3 each.

Wayne was led by Cassie Dew with 12 points, Kelsey Proctor 9, Kelsie Heinkel 7, Callie Bunch 5, Shelby Humphrey 3 and Maegan McCarty 2.

Simpson improves to 16-7 overall and will host Laurel Christian in District 4-AA action Tuesday.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:04:07 PST

Perry inks with Co-Lin

Christopher Perry of Adams Christian has signed to play baseball with Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

Standing left to right: Coach Case (Co-Lin), Adams Coach Hunter McKeivier, Eric Perry (Brother), and Rick Fife (Adams A.D.)

Sitting: Dawn Perry ( Mother), Christopher Perry, and Gus Perry (Father)

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:08:09 PST

Heidelberg's Rogers signs with Holmes

Kelsey Rogers of Heidelberg Academy has signed with Holmes Community College. Kelsey is the daughter of Ray and Kathy Rogers. Kelsey is a pitcher and played centerfield for Heidelberg Academy Lady Rebels. She was also selected as a MAIS All-Star and First Team All District. Parents Kathy Rogers and Ray Rogers sitting next to Kelsey Rogers signing. Behind to the left is Coach Ricky Casey Head Coach Holmes Community College and on the right Coach Nancy Brashier Heidelberg Academy.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:08:54 PST

Towles signs with Southwest Mississippi

Centreville catcher Tyler Towles has signed a letter of intent to play baseball with Southwest Mississippi Community College. Towles is seated with his parents, John and Jackie Towles of Gloster, Mississippi. Standing are SWMCC Baseball Coach Ken Jackson and Centreville Headmaster Bill Hurst, Assistant Coach Mark Mann, and Head Coach Jason Horne.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:22:51 PST

Rebels edge Cougars in Class AA heavyweight battle

Southern Sports & Travel

Two of the top teams in Class AA knocked heads last night for the third time this season as second ranked Brookhaven visited third ranked Central Private and for those basketball fans who wanted to see a preview of what the state tournament next month in Grenada holds they got their money’s worth. With 23 lead changes, 5 ties and neither team able to gain more than a five point lead, the game wasn’t decided until the final seconds.

Central Private senior Alex Overs scored 18 points and dished out 7 assists and the Rebels outscored Brookhaven 11-6 in the fourth quarter en-route to a 56-52 win.

Central Private got out to an early lead as a fast break basket from Luke Fryoux put the Rebels up 6-4 two minutes into the game but perimeter shooting was about to heat up for both squads.

Brookhaven took their first lead of the night at 7-6 on a Gage Posey 3-pointer from the wing at the 5:35 mark and following a Central Private turnover Posey spotted up and drained another 3-pointer from the same spot to put the Cougars on top 10-6.

(Above) Piers Carroll (#35) of Central Private gets a big basket in the closing seconds

Luke Fryoux answered for Central Private as the senior nailed a 3-pointer of his own to keep the Rebels close at 10-9.

Central Private took the lead at 13-12 on an Alex Overs turnaround jumper from 10 feet with 3:21 remaining in a well played first quarter. The remainder of the quarter included six consecutive lead changes, the sixth coming on a Simpson Anderson tip in with 46 seconds left to give Central Private a 20-19 lead heading into the second quarter.

Christian “Bubba” Keene quickly put Brookhaven back on top at 22-20 to start the second quarter as the senior drained a 3-pointer from the wing less than one minute in but neither team would manage to mount a run of more than four points.

The back and forth continued as Central Private got a 17 foot fall away jumper from Simpson Anderson and a Matt Myers basket in the paint to send the lead back in Central Private’s direction at 26-24 with 4:15 left in the half.

Brookhaven took control at the 2:22 mark of the quarter. Zac Smith’s 3-pointer was quickly followed by a Bubba Keene jumper from the elbow giving the Cougars a little breathing room at 33-29.

After an Austin Pierce assist to Alex Overs trimmed the deficit to 33-31, Brookhaven took their biggest lead of the half at 36-31 on another Gage Posey 3-pointer from the wing with just 7 seconds remaining but Central Private got what was a most critical basket as Austin Pierce canned a 3-pointer from the corner as time ran out to pull Central Private to within two points at 36-34 as both teams hit the locker-rooms.

(Above) Brookhaven's Gage Posey (#11) drives on Alex Overs of Central Private

Brookhaven again stretched their lead to five points at 39-34 on a Brennan Miller 3-pointer 45 seconds into the third quarter but it was obvious neither team would be pulling away from the other.

Central Private countered with an Alex Overs 18 foot jumper from the baseline and an Overs assist to Piers Carroll to keep the Rebels close at 39-38 with 6:29 remaining in the quarter.

After Brookhaven had taken a 41-40 lead Central Private managed to produce a mini run of 6-2 to grab a 46-43 lead with 1:24 left in the third quarter.

Two free throws from Brookhaven’s Gage Posey closed the third quarter with Central Private clinging to a narrow 46-45 advantage.

The lead changed hands three times during the first three minutes of the fourth quarter but after Brookhaven’s Zac Smith hit a 3-pointer from the wing to give Brookhaven a one point edge at 50-49 Central Private would capitalize on Brookhaven miscues.

Alex Overs converted on a hard drive to the basket following a Brookhaven turnover at the 2:11 mark and Overs converted on one of two free throws following another Brookhaven turnover to give Central Private a 52-50 lead with 1:40 remaining in regulation.

After Brookhaven missed on a long 3-point attempt Central Private increased their lead to 53-50 as Piers Carroll hit on one of two free throws with 1:12 left.

(Above) Central Private's Piers Carroll (#35) and Simpson Anderson (#5)

Brookhaven would get their final basket of the night in dramatic fashion as Zac Smith stole an inbounds pass underneath the Brookhaven basket and found brother Brock Smith for an easy lay-in to cut the Central Private lead to 53-52 with 43 seconds remaining.

Central Private’s Piers Carroll broke loose inside the paint to score a critical bucket with 29 seconds left to give the Rebels a 55-52 lead.

Brookhaven’s 3-point attempt to tie the game fell short and the Cougars were forced to foul Alex Overs who canned one of two free throws to seal the win for Central Private.

Alex Overs led all scorers with 18 points to lead Central Private, Piers Carroll added 14, Simpson Anderson 11, Luke Fryoux and Matt Myers 5 each and Austin Pierce 3.

Brookhaven (18-3) was led by Gage Posey with 16 points, Brock Smith 12, Bubba Keene 7, Matthew Evans and Zac Smith 6 each and Brennan Miller 5.

Brookhaven travels to Natchez on Friday to take on Adams Christian in District 5-AA action while Central Private (20-4) will travel to Bowling Green on Monday for a big District 6-AA matchup.

Post game with Central Private head coach Henry Gantz

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 21:26:43 PST

Simpson improves to 16-5 with road win
Southern Sports & Travel
The sixth ranked Simpson Cougars got all they wanted from Columbia for three quarters last night but managed to pull away in the fourth quarter behind Austin Douglas and Garrett Taylor’s combined 27 points to get a 63-51 road win and improve to 16-5 on the season.

Columbia took a 2-0 lead on Logan Cooke’s 12 foot jumper but Simpson would control much of the opening quarter as they put together a 10-2 run with 6’8” junior Bubba Edmundson accounting for six points in the paint to take a 14-4 lead with just over a minute left. Brooks Robinson’s 3-pointer from the top of the key would cut the Simpson margin in half at 14-7 to end the opening quarter of play.

Simpson jumped out to a 21-9 lead less than two minutes into the second quarter. Nate Ashley and Walt Prince nailed 3-pointers to spur a 7-2 run and Simpson appeared to be in full control in a physical first half that included 34 free throws between both teams but Columbia got the hot hand and climbed back into the game.

Following two free throws from Columbia’s Kyle Smith, Alex Price canned a 3-pointer from the wing at the 5:49 mark to cut the deficit to 21-14 and Price hit another 3-pointer following a Kalin McKenzie free throw to pull Columbia to within three points at 21-18.

(Above) Simpson's Austin Douglas (#34) had 14 fourth quarter points

PJ Hammond’s steal and lay-in at the 5:10 mark finished off an 11-0 Columbia run and narrowed Simpson’s lead to just one point at 21-20.

Simpson was unable to shake Columbia but maintained a lead until late in the half when a Kalin McKenzie baseline drive knotted the contest at 26-26 with 36 seconds remaining.

Columbia grabbed their first lead since 2-0 on two Brandon Bell free throws with 4 seconds left to take a 29-28 lead into halftime.

Columbia got off fast to start the third quarter as Alex Price hit another 3-pointer to give CA their biggest lead at 32-28 but Simpson ran off five straight points to retake the lead at 33-32 with 5:18 remaining in the quarter.

Columbia answered back with a Brandon Bell 15 foot jumper and an Alex Price lay-in off a Simpson turnover to go up 36-33 but baskets would come at a premium for Columbia over the next four minutes of the quarter.

Walt Prince drained a long 3-pointer from the wing to tie the game at 36-36 and a floater in the lane from Simpson’s Josh Hankins gave the Cougars a 38-36 lead.

Simpson quickly pushed their lead to 42-36 as Tyler King served up an assist to Hankins and Andrew Berry pulled down an offensive rebound and scored with 2:59 left in the quarter.

Simpson increased their lead to eight points at 46-38 on two Garrett Taylor free throws but Columbia stayed close as Alex Price hit his fourth 3-pointer of the night to close the quarter down by five points at 46-41.

(Above) Columbia's Alex Price (#10) led all scorers with 15 points

Columbia got to within three points at 46-43 to start the final quarter as a Brooks Robinson transition bucket got the home crowd fired up but Simpson responded with a 10-0 run fueled by Austin Douglas who scored eight of those points and notched an assist on the other basket to propel Simpson to a 56-43 advantage with 3:15 remaining in the contest.

After Columbia’s Adam Ham hit a 3-pointer Simpson reeled off six straight points to take their biggest lead of the night at 62-46 with just over one minute remaining en-route to the 63-51 win.

Austin Douglas led Simpson with 14 points, Garrett Taylor had 13, Bubba Edmundson 8, Tyler King and Nate Ashley 7 each, Josh Hankins 6, Walt Prince and Andrew Berry 3 apiece and Joshua Broadhead 2.

Columbia (9-12) was led by Alex Price with 15 points, Brandon Bell 10, Kalin McKenzie 6, Brooks Robinson 5, Garrett Magee and Adam Ham 3 each, Kyle Smith, Logan Cooke and PJ Hammond each had 2 and Josh Broom 1.

Simpson will travel to Copiah Thursday while Columbia will host Adams Christian in District 5-AA action tonight.
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noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:51:58 PST

Simpson clutch down the stretch

Southern Sports & Travel

The Simpson Lady Cougars overcame a sluggish first quarter to get a 41-33 road win at Columbia last night. Lauren Griffin led tenth ranked Simpson with 10 points as eight different Lady Cougars led a balanced attack in defeating ninth ranked Columbia.

Columbia got off to a quick start in building an early 10-2 lead behind the play of freshman Anna Wilks and senior Sissy Price.

Simpson countered with a critical 5-2 run to end the quarter as Abby Dunston converted in the paint and Kasey McWilliams drained a 3-pointer from the top of the key to narrow the deficit to 12-7.

(Above) Auguste Knight (#24) of Simpson shoots over Columbia's Clare Herring (#12)

Anna Wilks’ fast break basket to start the second quarter pushed the Columbia lead back to seven at 14-7 but Simpson’s defensive pressure started taking a toll on Columbia. Simpson held Columbia scoreless the remaining six minutes of the quarter and started warming on the offensive end as well.

After a Callie Martin free throw Simpson cut the margin to 14-10 on a Hallie Stubbs basket in the paint and then at the 3:57 mark Stubbs nailed a baseline jumper to pull Simpson to within two points at 14-12.

Simpson tied the game after Brittany Gardner fought for a loose ball and scored with just over one minute left in the half and the Lady Cougars took their first lead of the night as Hallie Stubbs scored off an offensive rebound with 39 seconds left to end the half on top 16-14.

Simpson maintained the lead throughout the early stages of the third quarter and took their biggest advantage at 21-16 on a Lacey Thames 3-pointer from the wing at the 4:41 mark but Columbia fought back.

Anna Wilks fired back with a 3-pointer to keep Columbia within striking distance and regained the lead at 24-23 on two Wilks free throws with 2:04 left in the third quarter.

(Above) Columbia freshman Anna Wilks (#5) drives in the first half

Columbia extended their lead to three points at 26-23 on a Dianna Hobgood jumper from 8 feet but Simpson countered with a Lauren Griffin basket from 18 feet and an Auguste Knight jumper in the paint to go back in front at 27-26 with 28 seconds remaining in the quarter. Columbia knotted the game at 27-27 on a Clare Herring free throw.

Columbia took the lead at 28-27 on a Sissy Price free throw one minute into the final quarter but that would be the last lead Columbia would enjoy on the night. Simpson produced a 10-3 run that was capped on two free throws from Kasey McWilliams at the 1:21 mark of the quarter and the Lady Cougars hit on 8/9 free throws down the stretch to take a big 41-33 road win back to Mendenhall.

“I thought we made some good adjustments during the game,” said Simpson head coach David Granville. “We showed a good ability to apply pressure and shoot free throws in the fourth quarter and it’s a win against a good team and a great coach.”

Simpson improves to 14-7 on the season and was led by Lauren Griffin’s 10 points, Kasey McWilliams added 7, Auguste Knight, Hallie Stubbs and Brittany Gardner each had 6 points, Lacey Thames 3, Abby Dunston 2 and Callie Martin 1.

“We get back into district play Friday at home against Wayne and our goal is to go undefeated in district and I think our girls are prepared,” said Granville.

Columbia falls to 13-7 and was led by Anna Wilks with 12 points, Sissy Price 10, Dianna Hobgood 6, Clare Herring 3 and Greta Carley 2.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:14:19 PST

Bowling Green wins 17th straight

Southern Sports & Travel

The Bowling Green Lady Bucs rolled into Centreville last night sporting a 20-1 record, a Class AA #1 ranking and riding a 16 game winning streak but struggled in picking up a 42-32 district win over the home-standing Lady Tigers. Freshman Reagan Moody and sophomore Melissa Crowe combined for 23 points to lead Bowling Green to their 21^st win of the season but more importantly 4-0 in District 6-AA play.

Centreville looked to be up to the challenge as the Lady Tigers got a 3-point bucket from Katie Berry and a steal and lay-in from Tori Rouse to take a quick 5-0 lead just over one minute into the contest.

(Above) Reagan Moody (#13) led Bowling Green with 12 pts

Bowling Green got on the board at the 5:18 mark on a Reagan Moody free throw and the Lady Bucs then reeled off 13 straight points as five different players contributed to a 14-0 run to take a 14-5 advantage with 41 seconds left in the opening quarter of play.

Centreville’s Katie Berry halted the run with a basket in the paint at the 23 seconds mark but Bowling Green closed the quarter on a Caroline Haik offensive rebound and put back to give the Lady Bucs a 15-7 lead in a quarter of play in which six different Bowling Green players notched a basket.

After two Ashton Crum free throws trimmed the deficit to 15-9 to start the second quarter Bowling Green stretched their lead to ten points at 19-9 on a Melissa Crowe bucket and a Caroline Haik assist to Crowe at the 5:55 mark but Centreville kept it close as Renee Miley canned a 17 foot jumper and Harley McKey hit two free throws to narrow the margin to 19-13 with 3:21 left in the half.

Centreville would head into the locker room at the half down 23-17 following a Tori Rouse bucket off a Bowling Green turnover.

Centreville’s late second quarter momentum carried over into the start of the third quarter. Harley McKey hit on one of two free throws to cut the lead to 23-18 ten seconds into the quarter and after a Melissa Crowe lay-in at the 7:02 mark put Bowling Green back up by seven at 25-18 the Lady Tigers drew to within four points on a Katie Berry 3-pointer from the wing.

(Above) Centreville's Katie Berry (#11) had a game high 21 points

Bowling Green stretched back out to a 29-21 advantage on Caroline Haik’s offensive rebound and put back and a 10 foot jumper from Ashley Foret but the Lady Bucs couldn’t shake Centreville.

Centreville entered the final quarter down eight points at 33-25 but Bowling Green’s Reagan Moody drained a 3-pointer from the wing to push the lead to 36-25 just thirty seconds into the quarter.

Centreville managed to get back to within eight points on a Katie Berry drive with 3:57 remaining but would get no closer as Bowling Green picked up their 21^st win of the season with a 42-32 road win.

Bowling Green was led by Reagan Moody with 12 points, Melissa Crowe added 11, Caroline Haik 6, Mackayla Dykes 5 and Ashley Foret and Breanna McNeese 4 each.

Katie Berry led Centreville with a game high 21 points, Tori Rouse had 4, Harley McKey 3 and Ashton Crum and Renee Miley 2 apiece.

Bowling Green improves to 21-1 and 4-0 in district play. The Lady Bucs will host rival Oak Forest on Tuesday.

Centreville falls to 0-4 and will host Silliman on Tuesday.

noreply@blogger.com (Darron Thomas) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:51:37 PST

Bucs edge Centreville for district win

Southern Sports & Travel

Bowling Green went into Centreville last night looking to pick up a win to stay within one game of district leading Central Private and the eighth ranked Buccaneers got it, but it wasn’t easy. Sophomore Patrick Roublow scored 19 points to lead Bowling Green to a 48-41 win in a game that produced 12 lead changes and 10 ties.

Bowling Green got out to an early 5-3 lead on Austin Knight’s 3-pointer from the wing at the 5:26 mark of a tight opening quarter but Centreville would put together an 8-2 run over the next three minutes to take an 11-7 lead.

(Above) Bowling Green's Patrick Roublow (#2) gets a 2nd half basket

Bowling Green reclaimed the lead at 15-13 on a driving lay-in from Mac McElveen with less than one minute remaining in the quarter but Centreville answered with a Cale McKey basket in the paint to send the game into the second quarter tied at 15-15.

Neither squad mounted an offensive spurt in the second quarter as both teams traded three baskets each to end the first half tied at 21-21.

Bowling Green looked to take control midway through the third quarter after Centreville had taken a 27-25 lead on Chance Humphrey’s 8 foot basket off the glass. Drew Varnado drained a 3-pointer from the wing and a steal and lay-in from Patrick Roublow gave the Bucs a 30-27 lead and some momentum with 2:33 left in the quarter but Centreville would stay close.

With Bowling Green holding on to a 32-28 lead Centreville finished the quarter with two Chance Humprey’s buckets to pull to within two points at 34-32.

After Bowling Green pushed their lead back to four points one minute into the final quarter at 36-32 on a Patrick Roublow fast break bucket Centreville mounted a 5-0 run on a Michael Keith basket, plus one, and Jake Darden’s lay-in at the six minute mark to retake the lead at 37-36 but that would be the Tigers last lead.

(Above) Corey Gaulden (#11) of Centreville with a shot off the glass in the 1st half

Bowling Green finished the last five minutes of the contest with a 12-4 run as four different Buccaneers contributed down the stretch to seal up a hard fought 48-41 District 6-AA road win.

Sophomore Patrick Roublow led Bowling Green with 19 points, Mac McElveen and Jarrell Mark each had 7, Austin Knight and Drew Varnado 5 apiece, Keith Dufrene 3 and Alex Keaton 2.

Chance Humprey led Centreville with 16 points, Corey Gaulden added 8, Jake Darden 7, Michael Keith 5, Dustin Williams 3 and Cale McKey 2.

Bowling Green improves to 14-6 overall and 4-1 in district play. Next action for the Bucs will be Oak Forest on Tuesday in Franklinton.

Centreville slips to 0-5 in district and will host Silliman Tuesday.