Lady Indians Season Ends at Upson-Lee

The Stephens County Lady Indians went toe to toe with undefeated and top-ranked Upson-Lee, but just fell short in the end 66-58 in the quarterfinals of the Girls AAA State Playoffs Tuesday night in Thomaston.

The Lady Indians grabbed the lead early and led by as many as 10 points in the first quarter. Stephens County led 20-12 after the opening quarter, and 30-24 at the half.

Upson-Lee did not have a lead in the game until midway through the 3rd quarter and led by two at the end of the quarter following a long 3-point shot.

The Lady Knights took control of the game in the 4th quarter leading by double digits briefly. Stephens County would cut the lead to five, but that was as close as they would get.

Savana Broska led the Lady Indians in scoring with 22 points, Ranajah Verdell had 17, and KiKi Howard was also in double figures with 11.

Upson-Lee’s all-time leading scorer Jakera Ellerbe led the Lady Knights with 21 points.

It was a great run for the Lady Indians, who had not advanced this far in the state playoffs since 1989, and led by a group of seniors that complete their outstanding high school playing days together.

The seniors include: NaNa Eades, Savana Broska, Lindsay Moore, Brooklyn Steeple, KiKi Howard, Ranajah Verdell, and Bre Taylor.

The Lady Indians finish the season at 19-7 and as the Region-8 Regular Season and Tournament Champions.