MONTICELLO, Ark. – The Warren Lady Jacks solidified their remarkable season on March 15, 2024, by defeating the Monticello Lady Billies 70-59. This victory marks Warren’s second win against Monticello in the 8-4A Conference and elevates their overall record to an impressive 26-2, maintaining a perfect 9-0 in conference play.
Warren’s head coach, Mary Beth Grant, has guided the team to clinch the 2026 8-4A Conference Championship, a testament to their dominance this season. The Lady Jacks completed a regular-season sweep over Monticello, underscoring their position at the top of the league standings.
The game began with Monticello taking an early 5-4 lead in a competitive first quarter. However, Warren quickly responded. Bayleigh Miller tied the game with free throws and subsequently delivered 10 points in the first quarter, including two three-pointers, helping to secure a 19-14 lead by the end of the quarter.
In the second quarter, Charlee Wardlaw shone brightly, scoring eight consecutive points, which included another pair of three-pointers. This surge pushed Warren’s advantage to 24-14. The Lady Jacks’ balanced offensive strategy and strong defense began to wear down the Lady Billies, allowing Warren to head into halftime with control of the game.
Warren’s momentum continued into the third quarter, largely driven by the combined efforts of Miller and Livi McKinney. The duo expanded their lead to as much as 13 points, showcasing their scoring prowess. Miller finished the game with a commanding total of 27 points, going a perfect 8-8 from the free-throw line, while McKinney contributed 17 points.
The Lady Jacks’ ability to rely on their depth was evident, with contributions from Breize Fellows (7 points) and Alyssa Calbert (5 points) further solidifying their victory. Despite Monticello’s late push in the fourth quarter, where they scored eight consecutive points, Warren maintained composure. Timely baskets from Fellows and Calbert, along with Wardlaw’s late-game efforts, ensured an 11-point victory.
This win not only enhances Warren’s standing in the 8-4A Conference but also places them among the elite teams in the program’s history. With only one regular-season game remaining against Hamburg at Lumberjack Arena, the Lady Jacks are poised to transition into postseason play with significant momentum.
The impressive performance against Monticello reflects a season of hard work and determination, as the Lady Jacks aim to continue their success in the upcoming challenges. The combination of strategic coaching, skilled players, and a strong team dynamic has revitalized the Warren Lady Jacks basketball program, echoing memories of past excellence from the early 1990s.
