The Lady Jags basketball has officially won district after they crushed Denton Ryan 48-39 in the last season game. Their persistent hard work has led the team to a 9-1 district record and a season record of 25-9.

The last time the Lady Jags Basketball team won district reaches all the way back to 2005. It took eight years, but the coaches found a set of hardworking girls who have a passion for the game. Senior player Rhiane Manley accredits their success to the players’ and coaches’ approach to the game.

“We all really support each other, and instead of looking at our individual stats and goals, we play as a unit and for each other,” Manley said. “We decided early into the season what we wanted to accomplish as a team and didn’t look back. We all wanted the same goals and worked hard for each other.”

January 4th marked the district opener against Lewisville. The Jags dominated with a 57-41 victory. Senior Ashley Deary and sophomore Courtney Fields both ended the night with fifteen points on the score board. The real competition was yet to come.

“The most intense game was the first time we played against Marcus,” senior player Kylie Capps said. “The whole game was a battle and we played the hardest I have ever seen us play.”

The girls continued their winning streak with the first game against Marcus. Fighting to the end, the Lady Jags beat their rivals with a tight score of 50-46. This was an emotional night for both the fans and players.

“It was the best feeling coming away from Marcus with a win,” Capps said. “Definitely a game that I know we will never forget.”

The Lady Jags’ only loss was their second game against Marcus. The girls started the game with momentum and intensity. Despite their determination, Marcus prevailed 63-51. The loss did not change the team’s confidence on the court, however.

“We had great team chemistry this year, and we constantly had each other’s backs through several ups and downs throughout the season,” Capps said.

Of the fourteen girls on the team, half of them will be leaving for college next year. Winning district is a successful end to their high school career; however, the seniors are already begging to miss their teammates.

“I am so sad it is my last year,” Manley said. “I’m going to miss the coaches and the game but I’m especially going to miss my teammates. I’m already looking forward to coming back next year to watch my little freshmen, sophomores, and juniors play.”

The seven remaining girls still look forward to stepping out on the court next year and continuing the winning streak with new teammates.