James Monroe Advances to AA State Final | WVSSAC Highlights
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James Monroe punched its ticket to Championship Saturday with a dominant performance against regional rival Wyoming East in the WVSSAC Class AA Girls Basketball State Tournament semifinals at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center.
The Mavericks set the tone early as Mya Dunlap scored back-to-back baskets to spark a strong start. Moments later, Lydia Dunlap added another bucket, helping James Monroe build an 11-4 lead after the first quarter.
Wyoming East tried to answer in the second period. Coley Tolliver scored in transition, and Abby Baker added a fast-break basket, but the Mavericks continued to push the tempo. Kendall Long converted a breakaway layup before Grayson Johnson finished a transition opportunity off a pass from Mya Dunlap.
James Monroe capped the half with a buzzer-beater put-back from Trinity Hill, sending the Mavericks into the locker room with a 24-12 halftime lead.
The Mavericks extended their advantage in the third quarter. Monica Moore scored on a put-back, while the Dunlap sisters connected repeatedly, with Lydia assisting Mya for another basket during a decisive run that pushed the lead to 34-13.
Wyoming East continued to battle behind Abby Baker’s three-point play and a strong drive from Kyndall Lusk, but the Mavericks maintained control throughout the second half.
James Monroe closed out the game with another Dunlap connection and secured a 49-30 victory, advancing to the WVSSAC Class AA State Championship Game.
The Mavericks will face Williamstown on Championship Saturday with the Class AA title on the line.