Brookhaven Academy’s Lady Cougars left no doubt that theybelonged in the championship finals of their Holiday Classic. Theyoverwhelmed Natchez Trinity Episcopal School 62-30 in Fridaynight’s semifinals, powered by Drew Holland Tigner’s 18 points.

Tigner was joined on double figures by Kelli Snider and BetsyLynch with 11 points each. Kellie Brady and Snider each had 5rebounds in the victory as the Lady Cougars raised their record to13-3 on the season.

In the other semifinals game, Marshall whipped Bowling Green47-30. In consolation action, Copiah clipped Hillcrest 41-39 andCentral Private dumped Huntington 44-31.

Brookhaven 62, Trinity 30

“It was a lot easier than I expected,” said Brookhaven Academygirls coach Barry Gray, when asked about the victory over Trinity.”I know we will have our hands full with Marshall.”

Gray was able to play every member of his 19-member varsity.They surged to a 34-13 halftime lead and carried a 49-21 advantageinto the final 8 minutes of action.

Tigner, a 5-11 sophomore, grabbed 3 rebounds in the triumph. Inthe second-quarter surge, she scored 8 points, hitting back-to-backfield goals on a driving layup and a baseline jumper. Sniderfollowed with a trey from the top of the key, giving her team a21-point halftime bulge.

Lynch dished out 4 assists in the win. Casey Smith chipped in 3assists.

In the first quarter, Lynch cashed in 2 layups and a shortjumper, giving the hosts an 11-2 advantage over the LadySaints.

Trinity (6-4), coached by Melanie Hall, got 6 points each fromMolly Butts and Caroline Ketchings.

Marshall 47, Bowling Green 36

A 24-point outburst by Traci Rogers directed Marshall’s girls tovictory. Kim Shaw added 10 points.

Copiah 41, Hillcrest 39

Julie Hankins tossed in 18 points to lead the Lady Colonels overHillcrest in consolation action. Emily Fahner added 7.

Central Private 44, Huntington 31

Soni Kirkwood’s 24 points powered CP’s win over the Lady Hounds.Katie Moak’s 10 points paced Huntington.