Michael Young - Sports Editor

Lauren Neeley drives upcourt on a fast break.

Michael Young - Sports Editor

JDA's Gabby Bates, center, gets defensive against an opponent.

CLICK THUMBNAILS TO VIEW

The Jefferson Davis Academy varsity girls basketball team fell short of its title quest Feb. 15 in the SCISA Region 1 tournament championship game.

Despite solid performances by Darcey Hollday and Lauren Neeley, the Lady Raiders faltered down the stretch, losing to Clarendon Hall Academy by a score of 40-35.

Holladay and Neeley, who accounted for 63 percent of the team's scoring, kept the game close for three and a half quarters.

However, in the last four minutes of play, Clarendon Hall amassed a 8-2 scoring run for the win.

Holladay paced the team with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Neeley registered nine points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals.

JDA coach Clint Inman said the team did its best.

"We played hard, but we just made mistakes at the crucial times in the game. I don't want to take anything from Clarendon Hall because they are a good team and they desired to win," Inman said.

"Overall I thought we played really well in the tournament."

Others performing well with the Lady Raiders included Katie Baltzeger with six points, seven steals and three assists. Branna Owens played well in the paint with six points and 10 rebounds. Gabby Bates had four points and five steals.

Players selected to the all-tournament team included Gabby Bates and Darcey Hollday. Lauren Neeley was selected All-Region.