GDW Analysis:
BIRMINGHAM: Another drought has come to a close for the Lauderdale County Lady Tigers.
Last week, they resumed the role of being the best in the Northwest Regional in defeating Holly Pond's Lady Broncos for the 3A crown.
Next on the task was to get to the AHSAA Final Four for the first time in 5 years.
A physical Lauderdale Co team was superior over TR Miller 58 to 40 Tuesday morning from Legacy Arena.
No. 1 Lauderdale ended a 15 game winning streak by 4th ranked TR Miller. A year ago, Miller was a 4A school and lost the state championship to the Good Hope Lady Raiders.
In her first season directing Lauderdale Co, Carla Clemons understands the passion of her fans, especially the adult side. "They expect us to be here every year."
A close first period became Lauderdale's to control for the rest of the way. A three by the Lady Tigers moved the lead to 18 to 9 when the first ended.
Lauderdale was ahead 29 to 15 at the half and took a 46 to 27 advantage into the 4th.
Shila Marks, the NW Regional MVP, overcame a slow start with only 4 points to finish with 23, scoring 19 in the final half. Marks was 9 of 11 from the field and 4 of 4 at the line.
Armani Thomas made her presence felt with her speed and athleticism to provide 9 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals.
Ansley Shelton tallied 7, Sarah Smith scored 6, leading the team with 7 rebounds.
The Lauderdale defense did a solid job on shutting down SG Meg Fountain. Fountain was only 2 of 10 in shooting the 3 ball and scored only 7 points.
Sophomore center Jadin Curry, standing at 6'4", had to work hard in scoring 15 to guide her club. She showed toughness in shooting 7 of 8 from the line and snared 12 rebounds, 10 defensive.
In their last two games, Lauderdale has forced the opposition to commit 54 turnovers. TR Miller encountered 25 turnovers and managed only 7 assists.
Lauderdale will be back at the BJCC for the 3A championship Friday 12:30 p.m.
Photo of TR Miller center Jadin Curry shooting over Lauderdale County's Emery Owens in the 3A Final Four Tuesday from the BJCC.
Photo courtesy of the AHSAA.
