Louisville wins second women’s state title in five years

Things didn’t go the Wildcats way tonight, but the 4A Ms. Basketball, Jacilyn Houston, stepped up big when her team needed her. She finished the game with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 blocks. She had a game saving block with four seconds left in the game. Louisville defeats Pontotoc 37-36 for their second women’s basketball state title.

“I’m almost fixing to cry I’m so happy,” said Jacilyn Houston. “I knew I had to step up big for my team. There wasn’t going to be any scoring on me at the end of the game for a win.”

Channing Lane was on fire for Pontotoc. She started off the game hitting big shots. Louisville was down 13-7 in the first quarter. 

In the second quarter both teams were hitting on all cylinders. Alayna Ball hit a few tough shots for Pontotoc, while Kelis Vaughn was poking balls away playing good defense for Louisville. Louisville found the spark they needed in the second half. 

After everybody fed their face at the concession stands, it was time to get back to basketball. The full court press was putting a lot of pressure on Pontotoc. Their shooting and production was going down. Jacilyn Houston was still making it happen. At the end of three the score was 27-24.

It was a very tight fourth quarter. A lot of lead changes going on for the fans at the BIG House. With four seconds left in the game, Channing Lane put up a layup and Jacilyn Tossed it all the way to Clinton. Louisville would get the ball, hold out and win the game.

“I knew there was pressure on me,” said Mitch McCurry. “Louisville doesn’t lose in championship games. Our girls stepped up big when we needed them.”