Worthington, Ky. — The Louisa Middle School Bulldogs are your back to back Girls OVC 8th grade Tournament Champions after a 60-43 victory over West Carter at Raceland on Thursday.
L to R MaKayla Stinnett, Aleaha Gillispie, AB Brooks, Jenna Murphy, Hallie Adkins, Brynnley Caudill, Addison Bowen, Addy Woods, Jada Patton, Emmalynn Kitts, Sara Brewer
The Dawgs went undefeated in OVC play this season and finished 19-3 overall.
The 7th grade Dawgs fell in the championship game to host Raceland in the first game on Thursday 37-13 and finished 14-9 overall.
2023 Louisa 7th grade team
L to R Makenzie Pinkerman, Sidney Ash, Aubrey Blevins, Kaylee Spillman, Jenna Murphy, AB Brooks, Madison Hughes, Lauren Sammons, Leah Muncy, Brinley Baisden
Louisa Head Coach Matt Fitzpatrick
COACH’S COMMENTS
“… I’m really proud of the 7th grade group. This was their first year of playing together as a team, and to see the individual development along with their growth as a team throughout the season, was an awesome experience. They displayed a lot of heart throughout the season. There was several games they were down and refused to give up allowing them to have a chance to win at the buzzer against teams like Hazard and West Carter. Those games didn’t go our way but energy and effort is something you cannot teach. The comeback wins against Morgan Co in the regular season, and the game against Bath Co in the semifinals were some of the most exciting MS basketball games I have been a part of. It was a great achievement to get to the championship game because we were the underdog and nobody expected us to make it. Ultimately, we were outmatched in the Championship against a really good Raceland team that had a lot more size. I would expect them to work hard this off-season and have another chance at it next year now that they have seen what their potential is.
“… This 8th grade team is just a great bunch of girls all around, and I think they provided a small sample of things to come with LC girls basketball. Going into the season I knew we had a chance to repeat, but the addition of Hallie gave us some added toughness and a true 1-2 punch in scoring to compliment Jada. The great thing about them as a whole was that everyone was willing to step up and do their part when their number was called whether it be scoring the basketball or playing lock down defense.
“… Pearl, Woodsy, and E all had moments that were big during the season, and combined with solid minutes from Aleaha, Sara, Makayla and Brin it was an ideal roster with a great mix of skill and size. Their desire to compete, and unselfish play throughout the season made it a fun experience to witness and I’m extremely happy that we were able to accomplish the goal we set at the beginning of the year.
“… I want to also give a big thanks to the school administration, and parents for their commitment and support this season. Also would like to thank Coach Ison and Coach Adkins because it wouldn’t have been possible without them.“
“… These girls will always be my family, and their ability to stay together and play for one another was great and a perfect example of the one heartbeat, one family mentality we promoted. Their laughter and smiles were contagious through out the year even after some tough times, and I am truly appreciative of the opportunity to coach them. I have been blessed to coach 2 championship teams at LMS, and I look forward to seeing those squads combined with the great talent of upperclassman Coach Feltner has already, the future of LC girls basketball is as bright as the sun, say it with me girls….RIGHT!!!”