Bulldogs secure sixth straight area title
The Belgreen girls basketball team extended their reign of dominance on the hardwood Feb. 2, dismantling the Covenant Christian Eagles 66-21. The victory marks the Bulldogs’ sixth consecutive area title, further cementing the program’s status as a regional powerhouse.
The tone was set before the first-quarter buzzer even sounded. Belgreen’s defense operated like a suffocating trap, holding the Eagles to a lone free throw in the opening period.
While Covenant Christian struggled to find any offensive rhythm, the Bulldogs exploded for 23 points in the first eight minutes. This initial blitz was fueled by Lilliana Willingham, who poured in six of her 10 total points during the opening frame.
By the time the teams retreated to the locker roomsathalftime,Belgreen held a commanding 38-16 lead. Much of the secondquarter cushion came courtesy of Marlie Terry, who netted eight of her 14 total points in the period, including two strikes from beyond the arc.
The third quarter belonged to tournament MVP Mackinley Hogan. After a steady first half, Hogan caught fire after the break, scoring nine of her game-high 14 points in the third quarter to put the contest entirely out of reach.
Covenant Christian attempted to counter from deep — scoring 15 of their 21 total points via five three-pointers — but they simply couldn’t keep pace with Belgreen’s relentless transition game. After adding 22 points in the third, the Bulldogs cruised through a six-point fourth quarter to seal the 45-point victory.
The championship effort was a true team performance that saw contributions from up and down the roster. Isabella Tate and Kiera Smith each contributed six points to the tally, while Randi Terry chipped in five and Makenna Fisher added four. The scoring was rounded out by Jemma Moore and Evey Fisher with three points each, and a free throw from Carson Hovater.
The celebration will be short-lived as the Bulldogs shift their focus to the state playoffs. Belgreen earned the right to stay on their home court for the next round. The Bulldogs will host a subregion game Friday at 6 p.m.
