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The Springwood girls basketball team is red hot. On the way to winning the holiday tournament hosted by Chambers Academy, the Wildcats extended their winning streak to 11-0.

Head coach Lisa Sampson said the achievement was not mere luck.

“It’s the same core group [of players]. This group has been together and working every summer and going to team camps and play dates,” she said. It’s really showing now, especially this season…They’re having fun, and they’re playing defense. It all starts with defense.”

Game 1: Springwood versus Edgewood 

On Monday, Springwood faced Edgewood beating them 57-40. The first half was an offensive battle from both sides. Edgewood showed their prowess beyond the arc, banking seven three-pointers in the first two frames. Springwood was more productive in the paint.

The Wildcats struggled with penalties throughout the game, giving Edgewood ample opportunity from the free-point line. However, the Elmore County team could not capitalize and went 5 for 19. Springwood went 6 for 13 on Monday. 

Springwood pulled away in the second quarter, scoring 21 points, 12 of which came from Shalexia Little. 

Both sides fell into step in the third quarter, matching points. However, a single goal in the run of play and three points from 10 free-point attempts from Edgewood during the final frame would put a period on the game. Springwood would move on to the final against Chambers Academy. 

Little would be the top scorer of the game with 27 points. Patillo had a good game with 15 points. Madison Robinson and EJ Matthews would both get on the board with six and five points, respectively. 

Game 2: Springwood versus Chambers 

The Wildcats came to LaFayette on a mission. Springwood looked like an 11-0 team in the final game, beating Chambers Academy 60-28. Little once again showed why she was recruited to play in college putting up 27 points against the Rebels. 

Chambers had issues with turnovers, giving the Wildcats ample possession time. Team captain Olivia Daughtrey was able to get some rebounds and key fouls to lead the team with 14 points. Anna Kate Jackson put up six points and acted as a conductor for the team. Chambers would put in some of the younger players after trailing 25-47 going into the final quarters. 

The Springwood offense was consistent, with the lowest scoring period coming in the final frame with 13 points. The team seemed to be effective anywhere in the quarter with seven three-pointers on Tuesday. Eight players got on the board. Vega Monsalve put up two three-pointers in the second. 

Little was all over the court, scoring almost half of Springwood’s points. Once again Tori Patillo was a key player on offensive and defense and put up nine points. Emily Jo Matthews and Monsalve both scored eight points. 

The Wildcats celebrated their continued winning streak by lifting the trophy in the Rebel’s gymnasium.

“I’m super proud, super proud,” said Sampson after her players walked off the court champions.