The Warren Lady Jacks achieved a significant milestone on March 7, 2024, defeating Monticello 70-59 in a thrilling away game. This victory marks their second conference win over the Lady Billies, elevating their overall record to an impressive 26-2 and maintaining a perfect 9-0 standing in the 8-4A Conference. Under the leadership of head coach Mary Beth Grant, the team’s performance is shaping up to be one of the most memorable in the program’s history.
With this win, the Warren Lady Jacks completed a regular-season sweep of Monticello, reinforcing their dominance in the league and confirming their status as the 8-4A Conference champions. The game showcased the skills and determination of the Lady Jacks, who have not achieved such consistent excellence since the early 1990s.
Strong Start and Key Performances
The match began with Monticello taking an early lead at 5-4, setting the stage for a competitive first quarter. However, Warren quickly regained control. Bayleigh Miller demonstrated her prowess by sinking free throws that tied the game, before scoring 10 points during the first quarter, including two three-pointers, to push Warren ahead 19-14.
As the game progressed, Charlee Wardlaw stepped up, scoring eight consecutive points in the second quarter, which included two more three-pointers. This surge extended the Lady Jacks’ lead to 24-14 and allowed them to dictate the pace of the game. Their balanced offensive strategy and defensive intensity gradually wore down the Lady Billies, who struggled to keep pace.
Closing Strong
In the second half, the spotlight shifted to Warren’s dynamic duo of Miller and Livi McKinney. The pair worked in tandem to stretch their lead to a maximum of 13 points. Miller concluded the night with a game-high 27 points, maintaining an unblemished free-throw record, while McKinney contributed 17 points, proving vital in crucial moments.
Wardlaw added 10 points, and key contributions came from Breize Fellows with 7 points and Alyssa Calbert with 5 points. The depth of the Lady Jacks was evident, with multiple players stepping up throughout the game.
Despite Monticello’s efforts to rally in the fourth quarter, scoring eight consecutive points to close the gap, Warren responded effectively. Fellows and Calbert made timely baskets down the stretch, while Wardlaw’s final contributions sealed the victory with an 11-point margin.
This win not only underscores the Lady Jacks’ current form but also highlights their potential as they head into the postseason. With a record of 26-2, the team has firmly etched its place in program history.
The Lady Jacks will conclude their regular season on March 9, 2024, at Lumberjack Arena against Hamburg, before shifting their focus to the upcoming postseason challenges.
“This season has been incredible for us, and we are looking forward to what lies ahead,” said Coach Grant.
