Vina JV Lady Red Devils stage comeback to defeat Phil Campbell

The Vina Lady Red Devils staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Phil Campbell Lady Bobcats 38-32 to win the junior varsity girls division of the Franklin County Tournament.

Facing a 23-16 deficit heading into the final period, Vina erupted for 20 unanswered points to secure the victory.

The game wasn’t originally on the tournament schedule with Vina winning the title by default. Phil Campbell, however, was able to field a team at the last minute to give the Red Devils a challenge.

Sophomore Lana Bell led the Lady Red Devils’ charge, contributing 11 points in the second half before leaving the game with 5:55 remaining in the fourth quarter after a hard collision with the bleachers resulted in a concussion. Despite the setback, Vina’s young core remained composed.

Sophomore Layla Hester, playing only in the second half due to a foot injury, showcased her resilience with 8 crucial points. Sophomore Makenzie Elrod also chipped in with 8 points, while seventh-grader Cecilia Rowbottom provided a spark with 6 points, all in the decisive fourth quarter.

Freshman Kari Harper added 4 points, and eighth-grader Marissa Lamar contributed 1 point to the winning effort.

Phil Campbell was led by Kylee Santiago with 10 points and Addie Gilbert with 7 points. However, the Lady Bobcats were unable to withstand Vina’s late surge.