The Westlake Lady Lions are set to defend their state title on Saturday, March 7 at the 2020 GHSA / Dr. Ralph Swearngin Basketball State Championships presented by Georgia Farm Bureau Insurance. If they capture the victory, it will be their third state championship win in a row.
Westlake, ranked No. 1, will take on the No. 2-ranked Collins Hill Eagles at 5:30 p.m. In 2019, the Lions beat the Eagles 60-53 in the Class AAAAAAA girls final. As the Lions sets their sights on a likely three-peat, Westlake’s Director of Athletics Carl Green says the team is “destined for greatness.”
Last year’s champion game high-scorers return this year, Brianna Turnage (4), Raven “Hollywood” Johnson (25) and Lydia Freeman (55).
The Lady Lion’s stellar roster also includes: Carlyse Hooks (5), Olympia Chaney (10), Cynthia Walton (15), Ta’Niya Latson (20), Kennedy Jackson (21), , Ryann Woodley (30), Camerah Langston (31), Cydney Byers (32), Misia Mckinney (33), Rhyann Wilson (41), Kamiah Denson (43) and Kelsey Willingham (44).
One of the most critical ingredients in the Lion’s winning formula is Coach Hilda Hankerson, Fulton County Schools’ most winningest coach. Last year she also earned the distinction of Region Coach of the Year and State Coach of the Year by the GACA for the 7A division.
Tickets for the championship game are $15 at the ticket office and all fans are encouraged to attend. For those unable to make the trip to Macon, Georgia Public Broadcasting will live stream the game on GPB.org in partnership with NFHS Network. The stream will be free for public viewing.