RICHMOND, Va. – The Cougars could not overcome a 20-point first-half deficit in falling in the state finals to Hampton 75-63. The Crabbers got 22 first-half points from star Kennedy Harris to build a 45-25 lead at the break. Despite a furious rally that got the game within 6 at 59-53, Hampton was able to prevail for the title.
Keslyn Secrist finished with a double-double for Pulaski County, with 22 points and 12 rebounds. Harris would close out the game with 35 for the Crabbers.
“You go down 20 there in a state championship game ... you’re playing the best team in the state and yeah the message was the same there. It was a lot of heart and pride in what we did and they showed that I thought,” Pulaski County head coach Scott Ratcliff said.
“It hurts to know we went out runner-up but this group of girls I’ve been around since the 4th grade and the friendships I’ve made with them I wouldn’t change for the world,” Keslyn Secrist said.
The Lady Cougars are state silver medalists for the second time in three seasons. Sandwiched in between, was a state semifinal appearance as well. The Lady Cougars finish at 26-4 for the 2022-23 season.