The South Cardinals edged the North Bears 80-78 in the annual North-South Girls’ Basketball Classic, a contest that swung back and forth before the South pulled ahead in the third quarter.
A Comeback Fueled by Defense
After trailing for most of the first half, the Cardinals turned up the pressure, holding the Bears to just three points in the opening five minutes of the third period. A 12-0 run capped by a flurry of three-pointers gave the South its first lead and set the tone for the remainder of the game.
Lauren Flanagan, the South’s standout, finished with 14 points and was named Most Valuable Player. Her performance was complemented by a balanced scoring effort that saw eight South players reach double figures, including Kennedy Porter with 11 and Della Knight with 12.
Rilee Storm, the North’s MVP, contributed a game‑high 20 points and kept the Bears within striking distance down the stretch, but the South’s defense proved decisive in the final minutes.
Coach Amy Chapman praised the opportunity to guide the state’s top talent, noting the event’s role in showcasing West Virginia’s basketball depth. Flanagan, meanwhile, said she will attend Ohio University with aspirations of becoming a doctor, adding a personal note to the night’s athletic drama.
The Classic, an annual showcase of the best West Virginia girls’ players, continues to serve as a platform for future collegiate stars, with many participants heading to programs across the country.