Cloudland Highlanders secure third place in district tournament
Published 1:42 pm Tuesday, February 25, 2025
C.Y. Peters/Star Correspondent Lady Highlanders Jayla Harper (22) shoots a three from the corner.
C.Y. Peters/Star Correspondent Reagan Turbyfill (23) drives to the basket for two points for the Lady Highlanders.
C.Y. Peters/Star Correspondent Lady Highlanders Regan Blair (3) breaks through the defense for a layup.
C.Y. Peters/Star Correspondent Layken Blair (14) goes up strong for two points for the Lady Highlanders.
C.Y. Peters/Star Correspondent Lady Highlanders Savannah McCurry (21) takes a jumper inside the paint.
C.Y. Peters/Star Correspondent Lady Highlanders Makenzie Street and Makinna Shell were recognized for their stellar play by earning spots on the all-tournament team.
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By C.Y. Peters
Star Correspondent
BLOUNTVILLE – The Cloudland Lady Highlanders delivered a commanding performance to claim third place in the district tournament, defeating the University High Jr. Bucs 58-38. A dominant start set the tone, as Cloudland scored 12 unanswered points and closed the first quarter with a 17-5 advantage.
The Lady Highlanders continued to build on their lead in the second quarter, extending the margin to 37-14 by halftime. Their defensive pressure and efficient offense ensured that the Jr. Bucs never threatened a comeback.
Makinna Shell led Cloudland with an outstanding 21-point performance, while Makenzie Street provided a strong supporting effort with 14 points. On the opposing side, Vonia Ortiz led University High with 14 points.
Both Shell and Street were recognized for their stellar play by earning spots on the all-tournament team.
Coach Matt Birchfield said, “It was a tough game to prepare for. We got some kids from the bench some much-needed playing time.”
With this victory, the Lady Highlanders advance to the next round and will face Washburn on Friday night, looking to continue their postseason success.
