By By Steve Swogetinsky/staff writer
Feb. 24, 2002
WAYNESBORO The old saying that defense wins championships came true for the Wayne County Lady War Eagles here Saturday afternoon as they defeated Hancock High 61-42 in the title game of the South State 5A Tournament.
You can't score if you don't get to shoot and Wayne County's defense limited Hancock to five shots on goal during the first quarter with none made. Wayne County picked up a couple of baskets each from Carla Bartee and Natalie Jordan four free throws as it led 12-1 at the break.
The second quarter was more of the same as the Lady War Eagles kept up the pressure. Hancock's Courtney Craft sank a three-pointer with 7:15 left in the half for the Lady Hawks' first field goal of the game. Wayne County continued to build its lead as it scored 23 points in the second period while holding Hancock to 13 points. At the break, Wayne County led 35-14.
Coach Skelton told her troops that this was no time for a let down.
Rakesia Gray scored 13 points to lead the Lady War Eagles, while Bartee and Jordan each added 11. Ratassia Washburn scored 10 points for the winning effort. Debin Necaise scored 16 points to lead Hancock.
Earlier in the elimination game, Moss Point defeated Gulfport 51-42.
Wayne County will get a bye in the first round of the State 5A tournament and will play the winner of the game between Moss Point and the second place team from the North.
Wayne County placed three members on the All-South State 5A Tournament Team. They were Bartee, Nicole Jordan and Natalie Jordan. Others making the team were Brooke Necaise, Devin Necaise and Latisha Shiyou of Hancock; Joanna Williams and Lakesha Ross of Gulfport, and Brandee Fry and Angel Liddell of Moss Point.