By Kyle Roberts
Ruston High will be moving onward in the playoffs thanks to the stellar performances of seniors Jaliyah McWain and Zaccheya Jackson, who combined for 42 of Ruston’s 48 points to lead the No. 7 Lady Bearcats to victory over No. 26 West Monroe by a final score of 48-37.
“I’m proud of the win tonight,” Ruston head coach Meredith Graf said. “Winning any playoff game is a big deal and should be appreciated. Overall our team’s effort was very high tonight. To me, it’s what got us over the hump and allowed us to keep the margin of separation throughout the game.
“Jaliyah and Zaccheya were both tremendous tonight. While yes they scored a lot, they also handled the ball pressure throughout the game and helped us get into the spots we needed to be in.”
Jackson led all scorers with 22 points total with 13 points coming in the second half, while McWain had a fast start with 16 first half points.
The Lady Bearcats took a 15-9 lead into the second quarter and extended it to 29-18 at the half.
West Monroe would outscore Ruston 10-6 in the third quarter, with Jackson scoring all six of Ruston’s points in the period.
Ruston would win the fourth quarter 13-9 en route to the victory.
The Lady Bearcats will move on to host No. 10 Natchitoches Central, who bested Benton 59-33, next week in Memorial Gym.
