Albany Monroe falls in Final Four

SAVANNAH – The basketball season for the Monroe Golden Tornadoes ended Saturday in Savannah when No. 3-ranked Hebron Christian blasted Monroe, 97-42 at Savannah State University.

Hebron used non-stop full-court pressure on defense causing turnover after turnover for the Lady Nadas and most of the game was played on Hebron’s end of the floor. It seemed as though when Hebron missed a shot, they got the rebound most every time and put points into the basket on second or third tries.

“Hats off to a great Hebron team,” Monroe head coach Jennifer Acree said. “Coach Azar always does a great job with her players. I knew when we drew them on their side of the bracket it would be tough and an eye opener.

“I’m proud of my girls for competing especially in the second half,” Acree added. “We will definitely be back. It was important for these young girls to get that taste in their mouth because I’m hoping it will fuel their off season work to get better! I will not let this loss overshadow our awesome season. 21 wins and a trip to the Final Four!”

Hebron pushed out to a 15-2 lead early and led 57-18 at halftime. Even with a 40-point plus lead throughout the second half, Hebron never called off the full-court press or had at least two starters on the court at all times. With 56 seconds remaining in the game, Hebron brought in subs.

Kie’Aundria Acree led the Lady Nadas with 18 points, Ciarra Lunsford scored nine and Taylor Mckinzy added eight.

The season ends on a disappointing note but with great promise for the future. The Lady Nadas finished in the final four and with a 21-10 record and will lose only two seniors — Ciarra Lunsford and Quaneisha Sims. 

By Joe Whitfield
Sports EditorJoeWhitfield[email protected]