Van Buren will advance to their second state semifinal in the last three seasons.
The Eaglettes led for all four quarters of their state quarterfinal win over Memphis Middle College. They increased their lead each quarter and won by a score of 68-32. Head Coach Tyler Sapp said his team rebounded throughout the game really well.
“It’s huge for us, especially when you lose a 2000 point scorer to be able to come back and get to this level, it’s huge for all of them.” Sapp said. “We knew that they could do it so it’s huge for them, huge for our confidence going forward.”
Cara Mills finished with 23 points and 21 rebounds, while Abigail Netherton led the team in scoring with 26 points. Van Buren looks for a state championship berth Friday morning as they battle Coalfield at 9:30 am.
“It’s huge for us, huge for the school, huge for the whole community.” Sapp said. “We’re not here without our kids so all the credit in the world goes to them for everything they’ve done this year.”
Van Buren will head to school Thursday before heading back on the bus early Friday morning in advance of their matchup against Coalfield.
“I’m gonna be scouting and watching a lot of film these next 24 hours or so and try to get the kids prepared as much as we possibly can.” Sapp said.
The win Wednesday improved Van Buren’s all-time state record to 2-3. Their only other state tournament win occurred in 2023, when they defeated North Greene 55-45 before losing to McKenzie in the state semifinals.
The Eagles will look for their first ever appearance in the state championship game.
