West Lincoln’s Lady Bears secured the 2017-2018 Region 7-2A championship title Friday night, something they haven’t done since the ’08-’09 season, with a 56-28 victory.

The Amite County Lady Trojans had no answer for the Lady Bears. The she-bears took control of the game early on and never looked back as they shot their way to the trophy.

“I’m very proud of the girls. This is our first Regional championship since the ’08-’09 season,” West Lincoln coach Brooks Smith said.

The Lady Bears started on a seven-point run before the Lady Trojans found the net. The she-bears continued their offensive stride, hitting a layup at the buzzer, to close out the first period 15-4.

The Lady Trojans tried to catch up before the half, but the Lady Bears offense continued to stay hot, leading 23-10 at halftime.

“I’ve got to give credit to the man that I took the place of — coach Lane Young,” said Smith. “He got them started, and I just tried to fine-tune some things. I told them good players make good coaches. I told them we would enjoy this tonight and tomorrow, but Monday we’ve got to keep going.”

West Lincoln opened the second frame with a five-point run before the Lady Trojans scored back-to-back baskets. But then the Lady Bears caught fire, and took total control of the game. They entered the final quarter with a commanding 40-17 lead.

The Lady Trojans attempted to come back, causing turnovers, but the Lady Bears offense just couldn’t be stopped. With a minute left, and the game already won, the young Lady Bears entered the game.

The Trojan ladies were unable to score against the younger players, as the Lady Bears cruised to a 56-28 win — also winning the Region 7-2A girls championship.

West Lincoln had four players shoot double digits. Freshman Brittany Stuckey led with 14 points and junior Meagan Gerald followed with 13 points. Junior Katelyn Dickerson netted 12 points and junior Skylar Hall shot 11. Sophomore Bailey Wilson made four points. Junior Mattie Floyd finished with two points.

Senior Ariesha Chandler led the Lady Trojans with 10 points. Senior Taniya Ellis netted nine points and senior Ambria Handy shot four points. Sophomore Sanquanletha Cain and junior Raven White each made two points.

The West Lincoln Lady Bears started the 2018 MHSAA Basketball playoffs at home Monday.

Story by Dave Linton