Harding Academy loses in State Semifinal

Harding Academy 33
Franklin Road Academy 51

from Commercial Appeal

A size disadvantage and a cold shooting game spelled the end of Harding's reign as D2-A champions, as the Lions lost to Franklin Road Academy, 51-33.

"They came out and did a great job," said Lions coach Becky Starks. "They did a great job of sagging in on our shooters. We weren't able to do the things we do well."

Mariah Canady led Franklin Road (26-3) with 18 points, while 6-1 post player Abby Wharton added 15.

After a solid first half, the Lions (19-8) went ice-cold after the break, shooting 20 percent from the field. Star sophomore Kaylah Keys, who led Harding with 20 points, was 2-of-13 after a 4-of-6 first half effort. No other Harding player had more than one basket.