Lanier County girls top Mitchell County

CAMILLA — The Lanier County Lady Bulldogs ended Mitchell County’s season 52-43 in the first round of the GHSA Class A public state tournament Friday night.

Mitchell County got into foul trouble early which forced them to play from behind. They still trailed by only two, 23-21, at the half and were within three points of the lead heading into the fourth. Despite being within striking distance, Mitchell head coach Kerry English said the foul trouble took the edge off his team defensively.

“Defensively, we like to get up in your face and play man sometimes and even in zone, we like to play aggressive,” he said. “But when the girls are not sure how the games are going to be called, the girls play a little bit apprehensive. Trying to make adjustments to the way the game was being called was tough for our girls.”

Lanier was able to draw fouls late and helped put the game away with free throws. English said his team’s lack of depth became a factor late.

“Defensively, I thought we played decently,” he said. “They had a little more size than we did, and they played a few more girls than we did. I think down the stretch, some of our girls may have gotten a little winded. I was trying to give them a break here and there, but it was tough because bench-wise, we’re not real deep.”

Jamia Mobley was the leading scorer with 21 points, followed by Jmaica Williams with 12.

The Lady Eagles will be anchored by Mobley and a host of other younger players next season, and English said they have to get back to work this summer.