Lady Tigers claim 4th after loss to Garrison

The Troup Lady Tigers finished their 2007-08 season in fourth place in District 19-2A, with the Garrison Lady Bulldogs handing them a 42-21 loss on Tuesday, Feb. 5.

Under first-year head coach Mitchell Davis, the team amassed an 8-6 district record and 16-14 overall.

"The kids did a great job of implementing our new system with defense and against pressure," said Davis. "We feel like we took some baby steps this season and are looking forward to making some major strides next season and in the near future."

The junior varsity Lady Tigers finished 11-8 on the year and 5-4 in district.

In the varsity game, Garrison built on a 13-3 first-quarter ad- vantage to lead 18-7 at halftime.

Troup rallied somewhat in the fourth, having their best production of 9 points, but still fell short.

Jessica Ross led with 13 points. The freshman has been a starter for a Lady Tiger team in transition.

"We were young in some key positions and are looking forward to having numerous kids back that now have a season of experience in those spots," said Davis, who is losing seniors Janna Ross, Niecy Stewart, Casey Smith and Stasinie Hunter. "We will expect some of our non-starters from the varsity and many of our junior varsity players to step up big time next season."

Alysha Barton is also graduating, although the long-distance specialist was sidelined with injury this year.

Davis is expecting a strong off-season to help develop new team leaders, as well as strength and athleticism. The coach also wants his players to get more involved with spring and summer developmental programs and leagues.

"As far as the year goes, I saw tremendous improvement in practice. We began shooting the ball better toward the end of the year," said Davis. "Our offense during games was definitely sluggish at times, but our defense was improving each day. The future appears bright for Lady Tiger basketball."