Here’s a look at how the defending state champions are doing thus far.
BOYS
Wilkinson County. The Warriors, in search of their third consecutive state title, are 6-1 this season after falling to Class AAA Central-Macon, 89-76 on Friday. Wilkinson County was outscored 50-39 in the second half. All-state senior guard Torrico Simmons scored 30 points in the loss. The Warriors will host their annual holiday tournament beginning Dec. 27.
St. Francis. The Knights are 8-1 with the lone loss coming to Class AAAA juggernaut and four-time state champion Miller Grove, 66-43, on Dec. 6. However, they have an impressive 93-60 win over Buford, the Class AAA runner-up last season. St. Francis, led by three of the best players in the state in seniors G Malik Beasley (signed with Florida State) and F Kaiser Gates (Xavier), and junior G Kobi Simmons, are competing in the City of Palms Classic in Ft. Meyers, FL this week. After spending Christmas Day at home, the Knights will head to Myrtle Beach for the Beach Ball Classic.
GIRLS
Randolph-Clay. The Red Devils started out 5-0 but dropped their last two games recently, both to region foes – 50-44 to Mitchell County on Dec. 12, and 47-43 to Calhoun County the next night. Randolph-Clay is idle until Dec. 27, when the team will begin competing in the Columbus Christmas Tournament with a game against Hardaway.
Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy. The Warriors are 8-1 with the lone defeat coming at the hands of Holy Innocents, perhaps the top team in Class AA, 63-58, on Dec. 2. SACA will participate in the Peachstate Holiday Tournament in Atlanta, one of the most competitive holiday tournaments in the country, beginning Jan. 2. Senior guard Nicole Martin is averaging 21 points and 9 rebounds per game, while fellow senior forward Shakyna Payne is averaging 19 points and 9 rebounds.
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