North Sand Mountain Advances to AHSAA Girls Class 2A Title Game
Bison Secure 59-37 Semifinal Victory Over Clarke County
BIRMINGHAM, AL — The North Sand Mountain Bison have secured their spot in the AHSAA Class 2A girls’ basketball state championship after a dominant 59-37 performance against Clarke County on Monday. Despite an unusual hour-long delay at the BJCC’s Legacy Arena, the Bison remained composed and are now set to compete for their first-ever state title.
The semifinal matchup was preceded by an unexpected pause as officials checked and adjusted the goals. While the Clarke County Bulldogs walked the arena halls to stay loose, the Bison took a different approach. Senior Abby Shaffer revealed the team had a “full-on dance party” in the locker room to pass the time. Coach Jeremiah Haynes supported the move, aiming to keep his senior-heavy team confident and relaxed. The strategy proved effective as the Bison took control of the game from the outset.
North Sand Mountain will now face Cold Springs (23-10) in the Class 2A championship game on Friday at 9 a.m. This marks the Bison’s first appearance in a state final since 2010, offering them a chance to make school history.
A Decisive Performance in the Magic City
Senior guard Kayden Reyes delivered a standout performance, leading all scorers with 20 points. She also contributed four assists and two steals, steering the Bison’s offense with precision. After an early 3-1 lead by Clarke County, a layup from Reyes put North Sand Mountain ahead, a lead they would not relinquish for the remainder of the game.
The Bison’s dominance was evident across the stat sheet. The team outrebounded Clarke County 51-35, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities with 20 offensive rebounds. While North Sand Mountain shot 38% from the field, their persistence and strong second-half showing sealed the victory. They improved their shooting to 45% in the second half, pulling away from the Bulldogs and cementing their lead.
Abby Shaffer recorded a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, while sophomore guard Kaleigh Roberts added 12 points to the total. Cara Summerford was also a force on the boards, pulling down 11 rebounds for the Bison.
Overcoming Challenges
Clarke County struggled to find its rhythm against the Bison’s defense. The Bulldogs shot just 27% from the field and committed 15 turnovers, which North Sand Mountain converted into 11 points. Despite the loss, Clarke County junior Aleah Watkins had an impressive game, finishing with a double-double of 13 points and 16 rebounds. Jayla Horn also scored in double figures with 12 points.
Clarke County coach Rhonda Pugh expressed pride in her team’s season. “This one game, it doesn’t define us,” Pugh stated. “Of course, we wanted to win. It’s been a great season.” The Bulldogs were aiming for their first championship appearance since 2013.
Road to the Blue Map
For North Sand Mountain (28-6), this victory is a significant step forward after falling in the Elite Eight last season. The team’s veteran leadership, with three seniors in the starting lineup, has been a key factor in their success.
“It means a lot to all of us,” Reyes said of reaching the final. “We work so hard year after year and then we come up short every single year… To be one step closer after all of this is an amazing feeling.”
The Bison’s journey to the championship game has been fueled by a challenging schedule that prepared them for high-pressure moments. Their focus now shifts to the final matchup against Cold Springs, as they aim to capture the program’s first girls’ basketball state title.
FEATURED IMAGE: North Sand Mountain senior guard Kayden Reyes (13) streaks toward the basket as Clarke County’s Jakiyah Thomas (24) gives chase (AHSAA PHOTO | David Holtsford)
