The #1 seeded Falcons hosted the #2 seeded Trinity Academy Tigers Friday night in the Triangle Triad (Tri-TAC) Tournament Championship game. The game featured two programs currently ranked in the top 10 in the 2A NCISAA State rankings.
Behind a blazing start from sophomore Kayla Jenkins, who totaled a game-high 19 points, the Falcons jumped ahead 6-0 in the opening minute of the contest causing Trinity to call their first time out. The defensive pressure continued to pick up as the Falcon full-court traps forced numerous Trinity turnovers leading to transition buckets for the Falcons. The Falcons ended the first quarter pulling ahead to a 23-6 score.
The second quarter saw the Falcons slow a bit, as Trinity found their footing. Despite the slower pace, the Falcons managed to grow their lead to 34-18 heading into the halftime locker room. From there they never looked back, using a 28-point 3rd quarter to put the game out of reach. In the end, the Falcons saw a 72-34 victory lead to celebrations at half court as the Lady Falcons claimed their second straight conference tournament championship and finished an undefeated season in conference play!
“It is almost surreal. These kids work so hard day in and day out, and to win a tournament championship on your home court—what could be sweeter?!” reflected Coach Brase. “They have invested in the process, and that starts by winning each day. We are going to enjoy this for the weekend, and Monday morning it is back to work to be our best at practice that afternoon.”
Sophomore Kayla Jenkins and junior Kei Kei Love earned all-tournament team. Kayla Jenkins was tournament most valuable player.
Conference Tournament Most Valuable Player Kayla Jenkins (sophomore) and Falcons Head Coach Lulu Brase.
The victory moves the Falcons to 22-3 overall and 14-0 in Tri-TAC conference play. Sunday evening the Falcons learned they earned the #2 seed in the NCISAA 2A State Tournament, which begins play Tuesday. The Falcons have a bye until Thursday’s second round game where they will face the winner of Epiphany School/Friendship Christian at the Hannah Center gym. The game is set to tip at 4:00 PM.
Feature photo: The lady Falcons after winning the Tri-TAC conference championship. (L-R): Rachel Patton, Aaliyah Balser, Kei Kei Love, Kayla Jenkins, Ralayah McRae, Caelan McHarney, Talayah Baldwin, Hadiyah Balser, Molly Haarlow, Beka Carr.
Contributed
