The Lady Pioneers traveled to Monroe to face the Lady Knights of Northeast Baptist on January 19. The Lady Pioneers used a total team effort and came away victorious with a final of 32-20. This marks their 2nd win this season and 2nd district win.

This team of girls has broken a six-year losing streak by winning two games this season. The Lady Pioneers are currently in the playoff hunt for the first time in over ten years. These girls comprise the youngest team in the league, with only one junior, three sophomores, one freshman, and 7th graders.
Coach Layne Huckabay described the game: “An overall team effort is what pushed them to victory. Lola Doyal, a 7th grader, led the team in scoring with 9 points to go along with four rebounds and two steals. Sophomore Amanda Seekford stepped up in the 3rd quarter and finished with nine pts, eight rebounds, and five steals. The biggest swing came from the rebounding of sophomore Adilee Register, who recorded a career-high and season-best 19 rebounds to go along with three steals.”

The final stats proved the commitment of these teammates. Neveah Farris had five points, eleven rebounds, and five steals. Seventh grader Elizabeth Cullotti turned in two pts and nine rebounds. Sophomore Holland Alexander connected with 7 points, six rebounds, and one steal.

In the boys’ contest against the knights, the Pioneers used a balanced attack and worked the ball to take the victory 71-32. As the second win of the season and first district win, they have positioned themselves in the playoff hunt.

Last year, Central did not have a boys basketball team. Coach Huckabay commented, “ This group of guys has put everything they have into the season, and it’s starting to pay off. We improve every game, and the last couple of games have allowed us to hit our stride.”

With 26 points, four rebounds, six steals, and five assists, Junior Leeland Durham led the way for the Pioneers. Senior Conway Whitlock, who averages 19 pts a game, finished with 22 pts, 13 rebounds, and five blocks while playing while under the weather. Senior Colton Moore finished with 15 Points and nine rebounds. Junior Olan Kennedy had eight points, three rebounds, and three steals. Cooper Ford did his part with nine rebounds.

Huckabay is extremely proud of both teams and the effort they are showing; “The future is bright for Central.”