COLUMBUS PREVIEW: Four local teams set to battle for state title


We started out with 8 local programs making the state playoffs. That was reduced to just 6 for the Sweet 16. Then, unfortunately, both Union and Rabun saw their seasons come to a close. That leaves 4 teams left who made their plans for Columbus, and a legitimate shot at a state championship.


CLASS 3A
LUMPKIN COUNTY
The Lady Indians (20-12) are back to Columbus for the first time since 2012. It took a nail-biting first round drama-filled series to get to the Sweet 16. But that proved to be much easier for the girls, although both games were tight. Now comes a grueling 3-day tournament to determine the Class 3A State Champions.
RND 1: W 2-1 vs #3 Westminster
RND 2: W 2-0 @ #1 Crisp County
ELITE 8 – GAME 1: vs Franklin County // OCT 24 – 6 PM
JEFFERSON
The Lady Dragons (25-9), much like Lumpkin, were pushed to the brink of elimination in the first round. Once arriving into the Sweet 16, they too rolled past the opposition. Now comes another shot at a title after finishing as state runner-up a year ago.
RND 1: W 2-1 vs #3 Sonoraville
RND 2: W 2-0 @ #1 Brantley County
ELITE 8 – GAME 1: vs East Hall // OCT 24 – 6 PM
CLASS 2A
BANKS COUNTY
The Lady Leopards (28-3) made quick work of both opponents to get to the quarterfinals. After finishing 3rd two years ago and state runner-up last season, this could be the year for Banks County!
RND 1: W 2-0 vs #4 KIPP
RND 2: W 2-0 vs #2 Bacon County
ELITE 8 – GAME 1: vs Bremen // OCT 24 – 4 PM

1A Public
COMMERCE
The Lady Tigers (21-7) earned the first round bye as the #6 overall seed from 1A Public, then destroyed Wilcox County in the Sweet 16. This could be a special run for the Lady Tigers, who are back in Columbus for the first time since 2013.
RND 1: Bye
RND 2: W 2-0 vs #11 Wilcox County
ELITE 8 – GAME 1: vs ECI // OCT 24 – 12 PM



