The James Monroe Mavericks captured the WVSSAC Class AA Girls Basketball State Championship, defeating Williamstown 50-26 at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center.

James Monroe wasted little time taking control of the title game. Mya Dunlap buried an early three-pointer to help the Mavericks jump out to a quick lead, while Lydia Dunlap added a steal and score as James Monroe surged ahead in the opening quarter.

Williamstown found a spark from Gracie Montgomery, who knocked down a three-pointer during her strong state tournament run to keep the Yellow Jackets within striking distance early.

But the Mavericks’ defense and transition offense proved too much. Kendall Long beat the first-quarter buzzer with a transition layup, helping James Monroe build an 18-5 advantage after the opening frame.

The Mavericks continued to extend the lead in the second quarter as Peyton Griffith connected on a baseline jumper. Williamstown answered with a scoop layup from Quinn Bunch, but James Monroe responded again with another three from Mya Dunlap to take a 25-12 lead into halftime.

Coming out of the break, the Mavericks stayed in control. Mya Dunlap knocked down another three-pointer before Lydia Dunlap added a basket inside as the Dunlap sisters combined for 34 points in the championship game.

Williamstown got second-half baskets from Arissa Burt and Maggie Fry, but James Monroe’s defense held firm. A late steal and score from Kendall Long helped push the Mavericks’ lead to 19 points entering the fourth quarter.

Mya Dunlap finished with 21 points, Lydia Dunlap added 13, and James Monroe closed out the victory to secure the WVSSAC Class AA State Championship, bringing the trophy back to Lindside, West Virginia.