by Malcolm Butler

Punch. Counter punch.

Louisiana Tech fans (and all of the college football world) were entertained late last week when the Bulldogs 2026 gridiron schedule was released. 

Twice. 

While the Conference USA basketball championships were in the middle of the final game of the quarterfinals on Thursday night, league officials released the football slate. 

After sending out a notification to its current member schools around 8:35 p.m. alerting them to the impending announcement, just minutes later CUSA released the slate — which included LA Tech — via social media avenues. Tech officials did not recognize the announcement with one of its own.

Less than 18 hours later, the Sun Belt Conference office released its 2026 football slate Friday with the Bulldogs as part of it. Tech officials immediately joined in with social media posts and an email announcement of the Dogs slate in Sun Belt Conference play.

It was the latest move in a game of conference affiliation chess. It sparked plenty of national publicity, most jokingly asking how the Bulldogs will play 16 “league games” in 2026. 

They won’t.

In response to the schedule releases, the Board of Directors for the University of Louisiana System filed an amended lawsuit (see attachment below) late Friday afternoon with the Third Judicial District Court in Lincoln Parish on behalf of Louisiana Tech University versus Conference USA. The amended suit replaces the original March 5 filing which was first reported by the Lincoln Parish Journal.

When asked for an official comment, Louisiana Tech University released the following statement Monday.

“In our February 13 letter to CUSA we urged them not to include Louisiana Tech in the football schedule. We have made it perfectly clear since July 2025 that Louisiana Tech will not play any football games as a member of the Conference in 2026. To include our university in any schedule is misleading and, frankly, disingenuous given the exchanges of communications over the past months.

“The Conference knew that Louisiana Tech was withdrawing long ago and had ample time to adjust its scheduling accordingly. This move is crucial to the health and well being of our student athletes. For our fans, we look forward to renewing rivalries in the Sun Belt Conference this fall with UL-Lafayette and Southern Miss in Joe Aillet Stadium and a visit to our neighbors in Monroe.”

Conference USA then responded Saturday by filing a Notice of Removal (see below) to federal court in the Western District based on diversity jurisdiction, requesting that the lawsuit be dealt with in federal court instead of state court.

This means the state court is immediately divested of jurisdiction, meaning the hearing originally scheduled for Thursday (March 19) will not take place. The ULS and Louisiana Tech will likely file a motion requesting to bring it back to state court. 

The amended lawsuit filed by the ULS on Friday has two key changes to it. 

The first has to do with Count 1 (Temporary, Preliminary and Permanent Injunctive Relief) and the second was an additional Court 3 (although it fell at the end of Count 2 on the amended lawsuit, see below attachment). 

At the time the original petition was filed, Louisiana Tech was not on the Sun Belt Conference’s schedule since it had not been released. However, once the Sun Belt released the schedule with Louisiana Tech as part of it, it created an operational impossibility as its teams cannot compete in two leagues at the same time which became the basis of the amended Count 1 for injunction (paragraphs 26, 31, 33-38, 40-42). 

Count 1 now states “Tech’s participation in the SBC for the 2026-27 academic year is not a development that arose from this litigation. Tech’s July 14, 2025 withdrawal notice expressly identified July 1, 2026 as its exit date and Tech has consistently stated it would be departing for the SBC on that date from that point forward. The operational conflict now before this Court is the direct and foreseeable consequence of CUSA’s decision to pursue financial resolution exclusively for months before unilaterally placing Tech on its schedule publicly released on March 12, 2026.”

Count 2 is exactly the same but the amended lawsuit effectively included a 3rd Count added on the end of Count 2 under Declaratory Relief: Grant of Rights Agreement (see page 26 of amended lawsuit, paragraphs 87 through 92).

Conference USA has alleged Louisiana Tech has to buy out of a Grant of Rights Agreement executed June 26, 2023, and effective July 1, 2023. 

The amended lawsuit states “CUSA has invoked the GoRA as both a basis for financial demands extending through 2029 and as leverage against Louisiana Tech’s withdrawal from the Conference. An actual and justiciable controversy therefore exists concerning the parties’ respective rights and obligations under that agreement. A declaration of the GoRA’s proper scope and effect is necessary to resolve the dispute between the parties and to prevent CUSA from asserting rights under the GoRA that exceed its contractual purpose.”

This is asking the court to interpret Tech’s obligations under the GoRA with Conference USA.  

Tech officials have stated their reasons for notifying CUSA of it’s plan to depart on July 1, 2026, and the desire to reach what it considers fair financial terms with their current league. 

“Our move to the Sun Belt enhances the experience of our student athletes, renews regional rivalries, and significantly benefits the Louisiana economy,” said an official statement on March 5. “Additionally CUSA has previously acknowledged the difficulty of crafting an 11-team schedule if we were to remain next year. We have tried to offer a fair financial resolution to this dispute and are hopeful that we can resolve it without resorting to prolonged litigation.”

For now, the game of chess continues for Tech fans. 

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Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications

Thirty-six Louisiana Tech University students, including seven Lincoln Parish residents, received their professional nursing pins in a Pinning Ceremony the evening of March 3 then graduated at Winter 2026 Commencement Saturday, March 7 in the Thomas Assembly Center.

The graduates and their hometowns are as follows:

Caden Adcock – Shreveport

Lauren Aulds – Ruston

Sadie Rowe – Jonesboro

Emma Bishop – Shreveport

Anna Brooks – West Monroe

Ally Byars – Dyersburg, Tenn.

Sara Cagle – Ruston

Brianna Delhommer – Prairieville

Gracie Dupont – Blanchard

Alisha Eppinette – West Monroe

Crawford Finley – West Monroe

Sarah Glover – Monroe

Claudia Hayes – Choudrant

Joey Hayes – Bossier City

Emily Hildebrant – Shreveport

Kellie Latson – Shreveport

Kiia Littleberry – West Monroe

Naomi Logan – Choudrant

Damaris Marcelino – West Monroe

Haley Mayon – Morgan City

Molly McDowell – Shreveport

Kaitlyn Medaries – Bossier City

Kaleigh Nale – El Dorado, Ark.

Sophia Parkman – Ruston

Savannah Pesnell – Ruston

Luca Rieger – Germany

Kyle Russell – Ruston

Taylor Snowden – West Monroe

Josephine St. Dizier – Lake Charles

Addie Stokes – Sterlington

Jaden Taylor – Bossier

Kara Watson – Minden

Brittney A. Whitlock – Calhoun

Cason Womack – Quitman

Clara Womack – Quitman

Luke Wood – New Orleans

Graduates who were members of the Student Nurses’ Association, Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society, or Men in Nursing were recognized with the presentation of cords.

The following awards were presented:

Academic Excellence Award:

Molly McDowell

Tenets of Tech Award:

Ford Alexander

Spirit of Patient Care Awards:

Sara Cagle

Luke Wood

SNA (Student Nurses’ Association) Award:

Molly McDowell

Benefactor Award for Excellence in Nursing:

Kiia Littleberry

Luca Rieger

Sadie Rowe

Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society Members:

Ford Alexander

Anna Brooks

Sara Cagle

Gracie Dupont

Naomi Logan

Haley Mayon

Molly McDowell

Kaleigh Nale

Sophia Parkman

Luca Rieger

Jaden Taylor

Clara Womack

Luke Wood

Each graduate was also presented with a commemorative Nightingale lamp by Northern Louisiana Medical Center. Following successful completion of the NCLEX-RN national licensing exam, the graduates are registered nurses.

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The Junior League of Monroe is proud to present its 28th Annual Spring Market, returning to the Monroe Civic Center March 19–21, 2026. What began nearly three decades ago as a fundraising event has grown into one of North Louisiana’s most anticipated shopping traditions. More than just a market, Spring Market is a vibrant celebration of community, philanthropy, and the power of shopping with purpose.

As the League’s largest annual fundraiser, Spring Market plays a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission of advancing the well-being of women and children throughout Ouachita Parish and the surrounding areas. Every ticket purchased and every item bought helps fund impactful community programs, volunteer initiatives, and partnerships that strengthen the region. When guests attend Spring Market, they are not only enjoying a weekend of fun and fashion, they are directly contributing to meaningful local change.

This three-day shopping extravaganza brings together hundreds of carefully curated vendors from across the mid-South and beyond. Shoppers can explore an exciting mix of boutique clothing, jewelry, home décor, gourmet food items, children’s apparel and gifts, handmade goods, original art, plants, and specialty products you won’t find in big-box stores. Whether refreshing your wardrobe for spring, redecorating your home, shopping for Easter baskets, or searching for the perfect graduation or wedding gift, Spring Market truly offers something for everyone.

The festivities kick off on Thursday, March 19, with the elegant Preview Party from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. This year’s theme, a Bridgerton-inspired Garden Party, sets the tone for a charming and elevated evening. Guests will enjoy early access to vendors in a beautifully styled atmosphere complete with live entertainment, a catered meal, door prizes, and a string quartet performing modern favorites. Preview Party tickets are $40 and include three drink tickets. For those seeking an enhanced experience, a limited number of VIP tables for eight are available for $500. VIP guests will enjoy champagne, a charcuterie board, and additional drink tickets! Perfect for hosting friends, coworkers, or clients for a memorable night out.

On Friday, March 20, General Admission shopping begins at 10:00 a.m. and continues until 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $15. It’s the ideal opportunity to spend the day browsing, discovering unique finds, and supporting small businesses from both local and national vendors.

Friday evening brings the always-popular Market-Rita Madness from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. This lively event blends shopping with entertainment for a high-energy girls’ night out. For $35, guests will enjoy three drink tickets, delicious food from Iron Cactus, live entertainment by DJ Worm, and plenty of chances to win exciting door prizes throughout the evening. Market-Rita Madness has become a fan favorite for its festive atmosphere, upbeat music, and margarita-inspired fun.

The market concludes on Saturday, March 21, with General Admission shopping from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Included in the General Admission ticket, Spring Fling kicks off at 10:00. Bring the kids for a fun filled family day including the Easter Bunny, other kid friendly activities, and of course shopping! It’s the final chance to browse vendors, snag those must-have items, and soak in the energy of this beloved community tradition. At 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, the winner of the Kandi Cruiser Golf Cart raffle will be announced. Raffle tickets are available for just $10, offering attendees the opportunity to win a fun and functional prize while further supporting the League’s mission.

What truly sets Spring Market apart is its purpose. Funds raised from the event directly sustain and expand the Junior League of Monroe’s community projects and programs. Through volunteer service, strategic partnerships, and dedicated fundraising efforts like Spring Market, the League continues to address critical needs and create lasting impact throughout the region.

For nearly 28 years, Spring Market has brought together friends, families, and neighbors for a weekend filled with style, celebration, and service. It is a time when the community gathers not only to shop, but to support something larger than themselves. The Junior League of Monroe invites everyone to save the date, purchase tickets, and join in this meaningful tradition.

Tickets can be purchased in advance on our website (https://monroe.jl.org/) or at our office located at 2811 Cameron Street, Monroe, LA. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. For additional information or questions, please contact springmarket@jlmonroe.org. The Junior League of Monroe looks forward to welcoming the community to the 29th Annual Spring Market and continuing to make a difference together.

This is an advertorial

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In North Louisiana, outdoor spaces are a way of life. Whether it’s hosting a summer cookout, watching the sunset over the water, or enjoying a cup of coffee on the porch in the morning, a well-built deck, dock or patio becomes an everyday use for a home.

That’s why homeowners across Lincoln, Ouachita, and Jackson Parish are discovering Gator Decks, a premium custom decking solution offered by Shell Building Systems.

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Every home is different, and so is every outdoor space. Gator Decks are meant to be fully customizable, allowing homeowners to create a structure that perfectly fits their lifestyle and property. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside dock with extra kayak shelves, a deck with built-in seating, or a gazebo with fans and lighting, Shell Building Systems can create the Gator product for you.

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One of the key differences between Gator Decks and traditional decks is the long-term durability and performance. Wooden decks often face challenges such as shrinking, warping, and weather damage, especially in Louisiana’s humid climate. Gator Decks are engineered to combat these issues from the start.

Each deck features true lumber dimensions, providing a solid structure that maintains its strength over time. Unlike many traditional decks, Gator Decks are built without visible face fasteners, which means there are no exposed screws on the surface of the boards. This creates a smoother, more polished appearance while also protecting the wood from unnecessary wear.

Another feature of Gator Decks is the engineered gap spacing between boards. This process ensures the spacing is precise and consistent, allowing for small, clean gaps that improve drainage and prevent the uneven spacing that often occurs as wood expands or contracts. The result is a deck that not only looks beautiful but also performs exceptionally well year after year.

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Protection doesn’t stop with the surface boards. Gator Decks also include extra waterproofing on the framing members, which are the structural components underneath the deck. In traditional decks, these areas are often exposed to moisture over time, which can lead to rot and weakening of the structure. By adding additional waterproofing to the framing system, Gator Decks help ensure that the entire structure is built for long-term performance.

This meticulous approach to creating each Gator product minimizes structural deterioration, helping homeowners enjoy their outdoor spaces with confidence.

Because of their durability and customization options, Gator Decks are an excellent solution for a variety of outdoor projects.

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• Backyard decks with structural integrity.
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From lakeside homes to suburban backyards, these decks are designed to enhance the beauty and function of every outdoor environment in North Louisiana.

A deck is more than just an addition to a home, it becomes a place where memories are made. With Gator Decks, homeowners in North Louisiana can invest in outdoor spaces that are beautiful and engineered to last. Through custom design, precision construction, and advanced wood protection, these decks offer a level of quality that stands apart from traditional builds.

For homeowners in Lincoln, Ouachita, and Jackson Parish, Gator Decks provide an opportunity to transform your outdoor space and provide an investment that gives back for years to come.

For more information or to get a free quote on your Gator Deck today, call J.D. Flynn at Shell Building systems. (318) 732-7503.

Follow Shell Building systems on Facebook to see our projects come to life!

This is a paid advertorial. If you own a business that wants to advertise with the LPJ, email LPJNewsLA@gmail.com.

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Guns, marijuana, and cash were recovered in a Grambling State University dorm room after authorities executed a search warrant last week.

Clifton Francis, Jr., 20, of Ruston, was arrested by GSU Police March 12 and his Wheatley Hall room searched during the apparent investigation of an armed robbery.

The search warrant was executed at about 3:40 a.m. Two firearms, 177 grams of suspected marijuana, a digital scale, vacuum sealed bags, and over $1,000 in cash were seized from the room.

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Francis was arrested at the time of the search. He denied the contraband seized on his side of the dorm room belonged to him.

An AR-style rifle discovered in the room was determined to have been stolen in Ruston.

Francis was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm while in possession of controlled substances, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, violation of the controlled substances law pertaining to drug free zones, possession of drug paraphernalia, and accessory after the fact to armed robbery.

The accessory charge apparently pertains to GSU’s warrant arrest of D’shedrick A. Green, 18, at his Ruston residence later in the day.

Green was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for armed robbery.

However, GSU Police did not return messages yet seeking further information on the robbery and to verify that the two arrests were connected.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

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A Ruston man was arrested last week after he was stopped for a seatbelt violation and was found to be wanted by two Lincoln Parish law enforcement agencies.

Laross Marshun Womack, 35, was stopped on March 12 by a Louisiana state trooper for a failure to wear a seatbelt.

Womack admitted to not wearing a seatbelt and a records check confirmed he did not have a driver’s license.

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The records check showed Womack was wanted on outstanding warrants from the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Ruston Police Department. He was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for simple criminal damage to property on a LPSO warrant and simple assault and flight from an officer on RPD warrants.

Bail was set at $13,000.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

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LPJ Sports Report

RUSTON, La. — The Bearcat Big Three clearly made an impact on District 2-5A in boys’ basketball.

Ruston High junior Ahmad Hudson was named MVP of District 2-5A this weekend after helping lead the Bearcats to a No. 2 seed overall in the 2025-26 LHSAA playoffs this month and is joined on the first-team by both junior KeShun Malcolm and sophomore Darren Ford.

Bearcat senior Zatterion Sutton and juniors Kohl Gray and Jasen Morgan were all named honoroable mention, as well.

“These students worked hard all year in the classroom, practice, and in games,” Ruston High Head Coach Marcus Jackson said. “The coaches in 2-5A recognized it as well and voted for them, because you can’t vote on your individual kids in the voting process. I’m so proud of these guys and although we fell short of our ultimate goal which was winning the championship, they had a great season. They are all winners in my book and I appreciate them so much.

See the full team below.

First Team

Ahmad Hudson (Ruston) (MVP)
Darren Ford (Ruston)
Keshun Malcolm (Ruston)
Jarvell Bordelon (Ash)
Jayden Austin (Neville)

Second Team

Zion Hunter (Ouachita)
Parker Robinson (Neville)
Marcus Bolden (Ash)
Dillon Dunn (Ouachita)
Zaylon Birdlong (Pineville)

Honorable Mention

Kohl Gray (Ruston)
Stephon Simmons (Neville)
Zatterion Sutton (Ruston)
Jeremy Smith (Neville)
Jasen Morgan (Ruston)
Konner Mason (Neville)
Korey Wright (Ash)
Ferrari Haynes (Pineville)
Tyshun Duncan (Ash)
Ken Ball (Pineville)
Trey Dorty (Ash)
DeAaron Morehead (Ouachita)
Allan Fisher (Neville)

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LPJ Sports Report

Ruston Bearcats Sweep Ouachita in Dominant Fashion

The Ruston Bearcats delivered an overwhelming performance Saturday, sweeping Ouachita in a doubleheader with decisive wins of 15-0 and 26-2 on Senior Day for the 2026 Bearcats.

“What a beautiful day for baseball at our place,” Ruston High Head Coach Bryan Beck said. “We have a really special group of seniors here. Just what they were able to accomplish last year as juniors by winning 26 ball games — just keeping this thing rolling; I can’t say enough about those kids. The first half of our season has been really, really tough. We were on the road a lot, and you get tested as coaches and players. Those kids have stuck together through good times and bad times, and they put their stamp on it today.”

Ruston’s senior class includes Michael Brisco, Kenden Freeman, Jackson Lee, Hudson Wood, Nolan Parnell, Lander Smith and Jackson Burroughs.

Game 1: Ruston 15, Ouachita 0

Ruston wasted no time taking control, erupting for seven runs in the first inning before adding eight more in the second to put the game out of reach early.

In the opening frame, Parnell singled home a run to start the scoring, and a Ouachita error plated two more. Smith added an RBI single, while JP Moak drove in two with a double. Sam Hartwell capped the inning with an RBI double.

The Bearcats continued the offensive surge in the second inning. Jackson Lee delivered the biggest blow with a bases-clearing triple, driving in three runs as Ruston pushed the lead to 15-0.

Ruston piled up 11 hits in the game.

Parnell, Lee, Hartwell and Jackson Burroughs each collected two hits. Moak and Lee drove in three runs apiece, while Parnell also swiped three bases as Ruston totaled five stolen bases.

On the mound, Colt Lary was sharp for the Bearcats, allowing just two hits over three scoreless innings while striking out four.

“We started all seven seniors in the lineup, and the bats were hot all day,” Beck said. “Just really proud of them. And you flip into game two, and the bats kept rolling.”

Game 2: Ruston 26, Ouachita 2

The Bearcats continued their offensive onslaught in the second game, collecting 17 hits and scoring 26 runs.

Burroughs led the way with four RBIs, highlighted by a two-run home run in the third inning and a sacrifice fly earlier in the game.

“Jackson is one of our team captains, and he hit his first career home run on Senior Day,” Beck said. “It’s our second home run of the year as a team. We’re so incredibly happy for him — he deserves that. He’s an incredible leader and incredible competitor.”

Ruston scored in every inning, including a 14-run fourth inning that sealed the blowout. The rally featured contributions throughout the lineup, including a three-run home run by Aiden Adams, triples by Jackson Lee and George Smith, and RBIs from Parnell, Freeman, Tyler Osborne, Dillon Williams and Tucker Patterson.

“You look up a couple of innings later and Adams hits a home run out of the ball park, too,” Beck said. “It was an awesome day. You score that many runs — I don’t care who you play; it’s really difficult to do. Our guys were very disciplined and took what they gave us.”

The Bearcats had already built a large lead before the big fourth inning. In the second inning, Ruston scored five runs with RBIs from Hudson Wilkerson, Lee, Hudson Wood, Freeman and Burroughs. They followed with six more runs in the third, including Burroughs’ homer.

Hudson Wood led Ruston at the plate, going 3-for-4, while Freeman and Lee each added multiple hits. The Bearcats also swiped six bases and turned a double play defensively.

On the mound, Hudson Wilkerson earned the win, allowing one run on one hit over three innings while striking out three.

“Everybody on our roster got in this game in some sort of fashion,” Beck said. “It was just that kind of day. We hit the ball around the ballpark and all over the place. An all-around team victory, but most importantly, we celebrated these seniors today and what they’ve meant to our school and community. I’m excited about the second half of our season. They’re playing really good with a lot of confidence.”

Ruston returns to action Tuesday against Sterlington.

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Choudrant goes 2-1 over three-game stretch behind Camp, offense

The Choudrant Aggies picked up two wins in three games over the weekend, highlighted by a dominant pitching performance from Cash Camp and a clutch late sacrifice fly from Mason Laborde.

Aggies 2, Anacoco 1

Choudrant opened the stretch Friday with a tight 2-1 win over Anacoco behind a complete-game performance from Camp.

Anacoco struck first in the top of the opening inning when Luke Thompson singled to drive in a run, but the Aggies answered immediately. Gavin Hall laid down a sacrifice bunt in the bottom of the first to bring home the tying run.

Choudrant took the lead for good in the third inning when an Anacoco error allowed the go-ahead run to score.

Camp handled the rest from there. The right-hander went the distance, allowing just three hits and one unearned run while striking out nine and walking three.

Hall drove in a run for Choudrant, while Rhett James, Braden Bagwell, Cam Bagwell and Keegan Barelle each recorded a hit.

Minden 17, Choudrant 14

The Aggies fell in a wild offensive battle Saturday, dropping a 17-14 decision to Minden despite a huge day at the plate from Cy Spatafora.

Spatafora drove in five runs on two hits as Choudrant collected 13 hits in the high-scoring contest.

Minden jumped out early with a four-run second inning, but the Aggies responded in the third. Choudrant scored five runs on five hits in the inning to take a 5-4 lead, highlighted by an RBI double from Barelle.

The game remained back-and-forth throughout the afternoon. Choudrant rallied again in the sixth to tie the game and erased another deficit in the eighth inning to knot the score at 14-14.

Minden ultimately pulled away in the ninth, scoring three runs to secure the victory.

Barelle led the Aggies with three hits, while Camp and Hall each added multiple hits. Cam Bagwell also reached base three times via walks.

Choudrant 7, Lacassine 6

Choudrant bounced back later Saturday with a 7-6 victory over Lacassine, surviving a comeback attempt by the Cardinals.

The Aggies jumped out early when Camp singled to drive in two runs in the first inning. Choudrant added three more runs in the second with help from an error, a sacrifice fly by Cam Bagwell and an RBI single from Hall.

Lacassine rallied to tie the game 6-6 by the third inning, but the Aggies regained the lead in the fifth when Laborde delivered a sacrifice fly to bring home the go-ahead run.

Braden Bagwell earned the win in relief, allowing six hits and seven runs (five earned) over three innings. Laborde was strong out of the bullpen, tossing four shutout innings while allowing just one hit and striking out three.

Camp paced the offense with three hits, while Laborde drove in three runs. James and Bagwell each added multiple hits as the Aggies finished with 11 hits.

Choudrant returns to action Tuesday when it hosts D’Arbonne Woods.

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Simsboro Drops Pair Of Games In Weekend Action

The Simsboro Tigers came up short in a pair of games over the weekend, falling to Grace Christian on Friday before dropping a matchup against Covington on Saturday.

Simsboro opened the weekend in a tight pitcher’s duel with Grace Christian but ultimately fell 3-1.

Grace Christian took an early lead in the first inning when an error allowed a run to score. The Tigers answered in the third inning when Chris Stevens delivered an RBI single up the middle after an eight-pitch at-bat to tie the game at 1-1.

The contest remained even until the sixth inning when Grace Christian broke through. A balk allowed the go-ahead run to score before a single by Wells extended the lead to 3-1.

Chris Harrell turned in a strong performance on the mound for Simsboro, working five innings while allowing just two hits and three runs (two earned). He struck out six and walked six. David Cedotal pitched one inning of relief and struck out three.

Simsboro recorded three hits in the game with Maximus Lee, Stevens and Cedotal each collecting one. Stevens also drove in the Tigers’ lone run. Kaid Barmore drew two walks as Simsboro showed patience at the plate with six total walks. Defensively, the Tigers turned two double plays.

On Saturday, Simsboro fell 5-1 to Covington.

Covington took the lead in the first inning on an RBI double by Bradey Miller and extended its advantage in the fourth when Kaydin Antoine hit a two-run home run to center field.

Simsboro starter Noah Thomas worked 6⅓ innings, allowing seven hits and five runs while striking out six and walking four.

The Tigers finished with five hits in the contest from Chris Harrell, Braylon Gipson, Trevor Cook, David Cedotal and Kaid Barmore. Gipson drove in Simsboro’s lone run.

Simsboro was solid defensively, committing no errors. Catcher Chris Stevens led the Tigers with eight defensive plays.

The Tigers return to action Monday with a road game at Delhi Charter.

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Luker Drives In Five As Cedar Creek Powers Past Claiborne Christian

Cedar Creek used a big offensive day — highlighted by a five-RBI performance from Kade Luker — to roll past Claiborne Christian 17-5 on Friday.

Luker led the Cougars at the plate, finishing with three hits and driving in five runs. He delivered an RBI single in the second inning, added a two-run single during a huge third inning, and later blasted a two-run home run to right field in the fourth.

Claiborne Christian struck first in the opening inning when Truett Hoston grounded out to bring home two runs for an early 2-0 lead.

Cedar Creek answered quickly in the top of the second to take control. Cason Floyd singled home a run, Eli Slocum followed with a two-run double, and Luker added an RBI single to give the Cougars a 4-2 advantage.

The game broke open in the third inning when Cedar Creek erupted for 10 runs. Micah Taylor drew a bases-loaded walk to force in a run, Floyd delivered a three-run single, and Luker added another two-run single. Carter Nichols later walked to bring home a run, Noah Smith doubled in a run, and Taylor capped the inning with an RBI single.

The Cougars added three more runs in the fourth. Luker highlighted the frame with his two-run homer to right field, and Brett Bell lifted a sacrifice fly to extend the lead to 17-3.

Jax Doiron earned the win for Cedar Creek, allowing two hits and two runs (one earned) over three innings while striking out seven and walking two. Carter Nichols started the game on the mound for the Cougars, giving up three runs over two innings.

Cedar Creek finished with 13 hits in the contest. Smith, Slocum and Floyd each collected multiple hits, while the Cougars also showed patience at the plate by drawing nine walks. Nichols and Ryan Coleman led the team with two walks each.

The Cougars were also aggressive on the bases, swiping eight stolen bases in the win. Luker and Floyd each recorded multiple steals.

For Claiborne Christian, Hoston drove in two runs and finished 1-for-2 at the plate, while Parker Bearden led the team with two hits.

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LPJ Sports Report

 

Cedar Creek Lady Cougars

Cedar Creek 4, Byrd 3 (Friday)

Anna Claire Fitzgerald delivered a walk-off sacrifice fly in the bottom of the seventh inning Friday to lift the Cedar Creek Lady Cougars to a 4-3 victory over Byrd.

With the game tied at 3, Fitzgerald’s fly ball brought home the winning run and capped a late comeback for Cedar Creek.

Byrd struck first in the opening inning when No. 11 singled to drive in a run, then extended the lead to 2-0 in the third after a Cedar Creek error.

The Lady Cougars responded in the fourth inning. Cadence Spangler delivered the key hit, a bases-clearing double that drove in three runs and gave Cedar Creek a 3-2 advantage.

Byrd tied the game in the top of the seventh when No. 1 reached on a fielder’s choice that brought in the tying run.

Kendall Ramsey earned the win in relief for Cedar Creek, allowing one run on two hits over 1⅔ innings. Ava Lantrip started in the circle, giving up two runs (one earned) on six hits while striking out five over 5⅓ innings.

Spangler led Cedar Creek with three RBIs, going 1-for-3, while Fitzgerald added two hits in three at-bats. The Lady Cougars also turned a double play defensively.

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Cedar Creek 8, Lakeside 6 (Saturday)

Cadence Spangler hit a go-ahead two-run home run in the seventh inning Saturday as Cedar Creek rallied from a six-run deficit to defeat Lakeside 8-6.

With the game tied at 6 in the top of the seventh, Spangler’s homer to center field put the Lady Cougars ahead for good.

Lakeside jumped out to an early lead in the first inning. Peyton Wood drove in a run with a groundout, Bray Lewis followed with an RBI single, Ella Wood added an RBI double, and Cedar Creek committed an error that brought home another run. Lakeside added another run in the second when Wood was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to extend the lead to 5-0.

Cedar Creek began its comeback in the fifth inning, scoring five runs on seven hits. Molly Boyd doubled in a run, Ava Lantrip and Sadee Williams followed with RBI singles, Presley Wall added an RBI double, and Hydi Boyd capped the rally with a run-scoring single to tie the game.

The Lady Cougars completed the comeback in the seventh when Anslee Woods delivered an RBI single before Spangler’s two-run homer gave Cedar Creek the lead.

Lantrip earned the win in the circle, allowing six runs (five earned) on 11 hits over seven innings while striking out two and walking one.

Cedar Creek finished with 12 hits. Spangler, Williams, Molly Boyd and Hydi Boyd each had two hits, with Spangler driving in two runs.

Lakeside collected 11 hits, led by leadoff hitter Emily Jones, who went 3-for-4. Peyton Wood drove in three runs and finished 2-for-3 at the plate.

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Cedar Creek 4, Evangel Academy 2 (Saturday)

Anslee Woods hit a go-ahead two-run home run in the sixth inning Saturday to lift Cedar Creek to a 4-2 victory over Evangel Christian Academy.

With the game tied at 2, Woods connected on a shot to center field in the bottom of the sixth to give the Lady Cougars the lead for good.

Evangel Christian opened the scoring in the second inning when No. 13 delivered an RBI single down the right-field line and No. 6 followed with a run-scoring fielder’s choice to make it 2-0.

Cedar Creek tied the game in the fourth. Molly Boyd sparked the rally with a double down the right-field line that helped bring the Lady Cougars even at 2.

Kendall Ramsey earned the complete-game victory in the circle for Cedar Creek, allowing two runs on seven hits over seven innings while striking out one and walking none.

Evangel Christian’s No. 13 took the loss after allowing four runs on 10 hits over six innings with one strikeout and one walk.

Cedar Creek finished with 10 hits. Woods, Hydi Boyd and Molly Boyd each had two hits, while Woods drove in two runs and went 2-for-2 at the plate.

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Ruston High School

Ruston 4, Quitman 1 (Saturday)

Sage Tolar pitched a complete game and Ruston scored four runs in the fourth inning to defeat Quitman 4-1 on Saturday at Ruston Dixie Softball.

Quitman took the early lead in the top of the fourth when Brenna Lamkin grounded out to drive in a run.

Ruston responded in the bottom half of the inning with a four-run rally to take control. Z. Jones and Jayla Spears each delivered RBI singles before Jaleigh Martin capped the inning with a two-run double to give the Bearcats a 4-1 advantage.

Tolar earned the win in the circle, allowing one run on five hits over seven innings. She struck out six and walked one.

Lamkin took the loss for Quitman after allowing four runs on five hits over six innings while striking out five and walking three.

Martin led Ruston with two RBIs, going 1-for-2 from the No. 9 spot in the lineup. Jones, Spears, Martin, Rylee Fobbs and Tolar each recorded a hit for the Bearcats, who also turned a double play.

Anna Claire Leach paced Quitman with two hits in three at-bats, while Lamkin drove in the Lady Wolverines’ lone run. Quitman committed no errors, with Maggie Guyotte recording a team-high five defensive chances.

Ruston will travel to Neville for its next game Tuesday.

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Choudrant High School

Many 12, Choudrant 3 (Friday)

Many built an early lead and pulled away for a 12-3 victory over Choudrant on Friday.

The Lady Tigers took control in the first inning when Avaree Procell was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to force in a run and Allie Payne followed with a sacrifice fly to make it 2-0. Many added another run in the second when Rylee Gunter delivered an RBI single down the left-field line.

LarKaye Carter earned the win in the circle for Many, allowing three runs (two earned) on eight hits over seven innings. She struck out seven and walked two.

Addison Worley started for Choudrant and allowed four runs (three earned) on four hits over 1⅓ innings. Kennedi Otwell worked 4⅔ innings in relief, surrendering eight runs (five earned) on seven hits while striking out two and walking three.

Choudrant finished with eight hits, led by Kelsee Guillotte, who went 2-for-4 with two RBIs. Guillotte, Emery Boggs and Otwell each had two hits, and the Lady Aggies turned a double play.

Many collected 11 hits. Payne went 2-for-3 and drove in three runs, while Lilly Arthur, Gunter, Payne and Caylee Downs each recorded two hits. Arthur also stole two bases.

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Benton 11, Choudrant 0 (Saturday)

Bayleigh Moniz hit a grand slam in the third inning and pitched a one-hit shutout to lead Benton to an 11-0 victory over Choudrant on Saturday.

Moniz’s grand slam to center field highlighted a big inning for Benton and helped the Lady Tigers pull away.

Moniz was dominant in the circle, allowing just one hit over six innings while striking out 10 and walking none.

Addison Worley started for Choudrant and struck out nine over 5⅔ innings but allowed 11 runs, though only two were earned, on five hits with one walk.

Kennedi Otwell recorded Choudrant’s only hit, finishing 1-for-2.

Moniz led Benton with four RBIs from the No. 3 spot in the lineup, going 1-for-4. Lainey Lafitte, Madison Lodatto, Makaylyn Lawrence and Maddy York each added a hit for the Lady Tigers, who finished with five hits and four stolen bases.

Benton also played error-free defense, with Lafitte recording a team-high 10 fielding chances.

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Logansport 8, Choudrant 2 (Saturday)

Logansport used timely power and solid pitching to defeat Choudrant 8-2 on Saturday.

Logansport broke through in the fourth inning when Ainsley Morvan hit a solo home run to left field to open the scoring. Kennedi Smith added another solo homer in the seventh to help seal the victory.

Choudrant’s offense came in the sixth inning when Addison Worley connected on a two-run home run to center field, accounting for the Lady Aggies’ only runs.

Morvan earned the win in the circle for Logansport, allowing two runs on four hits over seven innings. She struck out seven and walked one.

Kennedi Otwell started for Choudrant and allowed six runs (two earned) on five hits over 5⅓ innings while striking out three and walking five.

Worley led Choudrant with two RBIs and went 1-for-2 at the plate. Lynlee Garrett, Emery Boggs and Audrey Holbron also recorded hits for the Lady Aggies.

Anna Atkins and Smith each collected two hits for Logansport, with Smith driving in three runs from the No. 3 spot in the lineup. Abbie Kate Forrest drew two walks as Logansport showed patience at the plate with six total walks.

Logansport also played error-free defense, with Emmarie Atkins leading the team with seven fielding chances.

Choudrant will travel to Simsboro for its next game Tuesday.

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Simsboro High School

Doyline 7, Simsboro 6 (Thursday)

Doyline scored on a walk-off single in the bottom of the seventh inning to edge Simsboro 7-6 on Thursday.

With the game tied at 6, Doyline’s delivered a run-scoring single to seal the victory.

Simsboro jumped out to an early lead in the first inning when Kennady King walked, Gracie Wynne singled up the middle and Talashia Mangham followed with an RBI single, each driving in a run to make it 3-0. The Lady Tigers added another run in the second when Callie Harrison drew a bases-loaded walk.

Doyline rallied in the fifth inning to take the lead. Doyline doubled to center field, and RBI singles followed to help push the Tigers in front.

Simsboro tied the game at 6 in the top of the seventh when Wynne grounded into a fielder’s choice that brought home a run.

Kennady King took the loss in relief for Simsboro, allowing one run on two hits over 1⅓ innings. Kailee Hamilton started and gave up six runs on nine hits over five innings.

Brianna Boyd led Simsboro with two hits, while Wynne drove in two runs. The Lady Tigers were aggressive on the bases, stealing 13 bases and drawing nine walks.

Doyline finished with 11 hits. Doyline also stole nine bases and turned a double play while committing no errors.

Simsboro will travel to Union Parish for its next game Monday.

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Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

Monday, March 16
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston Planning and Zoning meeting (Ruston City Hall)
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

Tuesday, March 17
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m. Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

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Wednesday, March 18
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)

Thursday, March 19
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
2 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Peach Cobbler Factory (101 N. Service Rd., Unit 2)
4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal courtesy of Halff Associates and 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry to be served at St. Benedict Church on Main Street in Grambling. All are welcome.
5 p.m.: Library Board of Control Meeting (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6:30 p.m.: Books and Bites Book Club (Lincoln Parish Library; registration required by calling 318-513-5510)

Friday, March 20
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Friends of the Library Children’s Books and Puzzle Sale (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Saturday, March 21
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
8 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Missions Market 2026; Concord/Union Baptist Association Women on Mission craft and bake sale (Temple Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 1515 S. Service Rd. W., Ruston)
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Friends of the Library Children’s Books and Puzzle Sale (Lincoln Parish Library)
2-3 p.m.: Tween and Teen Writer Workshop (Lincoln Parish Library)
3 p.m.: GSU baseball

Sunday, March 22
1 p.m.: GSU baseball

Monday, March 23
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

Tuesday, March 24
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Wednesday, March 25
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)

Thursday, March 26
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, March 27
1 p.m.: Grambling State softball
4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday: Women’s History Month Bingo (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball

Saturday, March 28
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Board Game Meet Up (Lincoln Parish Library)
10 a.m.: Master Gardeners present “The Cutting Garden: A Bounty of Blooms” (Jack Beard Room, Lincoln Parish Library)
Noon: Grambling State softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
2 p.m.: Grambling State softball

Sunday, March 29
11 a.m.: LA Tech softball
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

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Staff Reports

LA Tech Baseball

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs baseball erupted for 15 runs over the final four innings and completed a three-game sweep of Delaware Blue Hens with a 17-4 run-rule victory in eight innings Sunday at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park.

Louisiana Tech (13-8, 3-0 Conference USA) opened league play with a perfect record, marking just the second time under coach Lane Burroughs that the Bulldogs have started conference play with a sweep and the third occurrence for the program since 2003.

The Bulldogs outscored Delaware (8-12, 0-3 CUSA) 31-7 in the three-game series and used six-run innings in both the fifth and eighth to seal Sunday’s win via the run rule.

Tech won Friday 5-0 and then took a 9-3 decision on Saturday. 

On Sunday, Louisiana Tech struck first in the opening inning when Trey Hawsey singled up the middle to score Cade Patterson, who reached on a walk and advanced to third during a hit-and-run play. Sebastian Mexico followed with a double into the left-center gap, and Colton Coates later drove in a run when he reached on a Delaware error to give the Bulldogs an early 2-0 lead.

Delaware answered in the fifth, scoring three runs to briefly take a 3-2 lead after a two-run double tied the game and an RBI single to center field put the Blue Hens ahead.

Louisiana Tech responded immediately in the bottom half of the inning, batting around and scoring six runs to reclaim control. Mexico tied the game with an RBI single before Wesley Scott delivered the biggest blow of the inning, launching a three-run homer over the left-field wall to give the Bulldogs the lead for good.

Patterson later capped the rally with a two-run double to left field, extending the advantage to 8-3.

Hawsey added a solo home run in the sixth to push the lead to six runs. Delaware plated a run in the seventh, but Louisiana Tech answered with two more runs in the bottom half of the inning, including an RBI groundout by Hawsey that made it 11-4.

The Bulldogs ended the game in the eighth. After loading the bases, Colby Lunsford delivered a walk-off grand slam to left field, triggering the run rule and finishing the sweep.

Mexico led the offensive surge with three hits, including two doubles, while six of the seven Bulldogs who recorded hits had multiple hits. All nine Louisiana Tech batters reached base at least once.

Louisiana Tech also produced its second consecutive game with 14 hits, the first time the Bulldogs have recorded at least 14 hits in back-to-back games since the 2025 series against Dallas Baptist Patriots baseball.

After the game, Burroughs praised his team’s offensive performance and discipline at the plate.

“We won the freebie war again, so back-to-back days I felt like we’ve done a great job of having quality at-bats,” Burroughs said. “I feel like it was clicking on all cylinders this weekend, and very proud to get the sweep.”

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LA Tech Softball

Allie Floyd tossed a one-hit shutout and the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs scored nine runs in the third inning to defeat the Delaware Blue Hens 11-0 in five innings Sunday, completing a three-game sweep in Conference USA play.

Tech won Friday 5-0 and then outscored the Blue Hens 8-7 on Saturday.

“It was a really important weekend for us to even up in conference play,” head coach Josh Taylor said. “I think we pitched really well all weekend, played really good defense and got a lot of timely hits.”

Louisiana Tech (17-10, 3-3 CUSA) outhit Delaware 8-1 at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field, with Bradi Gallaway and Reagan Marchant each hitting three-run home runs during the decisive third inning.

Floyd (7-6) struck out six and walked four in her second complete-game shutout of the weekend. The right-hander allowed only one hit — a third-inning single — after a hard-hit ball deflected off a diving attempt by Aleah Brooks.

Louisiana Tech took a 2-0 lead in the second inning when Brooks led off with a double and later scored on a sacrifice fly by Jina Baffuto. Alannah Rogers followed with another sacrifice fly to bring home Rosalie Dufresne.

The Bulldogs broke the game open in the third. After Marchant singled and Reese Torres walked, Gallaway launched a three-run homer to make it 5-0. Louisiana Tech continued to capitalize on Delaware pitching changes, with Elena Heng delivering an RBI single and Allie Furr adding a two-run single later in the inning.

Marchant capped the nine-run frame with a three-run home run, extending the Bulldogs’ lead to 11-0.

Marchant finished with two hits and three RBIs, while Gallaway also drove in three runs. Brooks, Heng, Furr, Rogers and Torres each added a hit for Louisiana Tech.

Floyd retired the side in the fourth and worked around a walk in the fifth to seal the run-rule victory.

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Grambling State Baseball

The Grambling State Tigers rallied from an early five-run deficit and held off the Alabama State Hornets 14-13 on Sunday to clinch the series at Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex.

GSU won 9-5 on Friday before falling 5-4 on Saturday. 

Grambling State (5-13) collected 16 hits and erased multiple deficits, highlighted by a dominant performance from Julio Vasquez, who went 5 for 6 with two home runs, a double and seven RBIs.

Alabama State (9-9) jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning, capitalizing on walks and wild pitches. Jackson Williams delivered a two-run single during the rally as the Hornets took early control.

The Tigers responded in the third inning when Hasani Johnson and Trey Bridges reached base before Vasquez launched a three-run home run to center field, trimming the deficit to 5-4.

Alabama State answered in the bottom of the inning when Miguel Oropeza hit a three-run homer to left-center field to extend the lead to 8-4.

Grambling State chipped away in the fifth. Johnson singled and Bridges walked before Cameron Hill drove in a run with a single. Vasquez followed with an RBI hit that also allowed Hill to score on a defensive error, cutting the deficit to 10-7.

The Tigers tied the game in the seventh inning. Aidan Lopez doubled to start the rally, and Vasquez added an RBI double. Shannon Martin followed with an RBI single before Johnson delivered a two-run double to center field to even the score at 11-11.

Alabama State briefly regained the lead in the bottom of the seventh on an RBI single by Adrien Mendoza.

Grambling State responded in the eighth inning when Vasquez hit a solo home run to tie the game. Charles Ashe III later gave the Tigers the lead with a two-run homer, putting Grambling State ahead 14-12.

Alabama State scored once in the ninth and loaded the bases, but the Tigers ended the game when Alex Espaillat lined into a double play.

Johnson added three hits and two RBIs for Grambling State, while Ashe and Martavius Thomas each finished with two hits.

Payton Allen (1-0) earned the win with three innings of relief, allowing two runs — one earned — and striking out two.

Oropeza led Alabama State with three hits and six RBIs, including a three-run home run.

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Grambling State Softball

Grambling State dropped both games of a Southwestern Athletic Conference doubleheader Saturday against Southern at Lady Jaguar Field, falling 7–1 in the opener before suffering a 6–5 walk-off loss in the nightcap.

In the first game, Grambling State took an early lead in the third inning when Ahsunte’ Specks belted a solo home run to left field.

Southern answered with four runs in the bottom half of the inning to take control and added three more in the fifth to seal the victory.

Specks finished 1 for 3 with the Tigers’ lone run. Cadashia Collins, Ziya Donaldson and Z’Natria Evans each recorded a hit. Hailei Harrell took the loss in the circle.

In the second game, Grambling State built a 3–0 advantage in the fourth inning behind RBI efforts from Collins and Donaldson, along with another run that scored on an error.

Southern cut the deficit to 3–2 in the fifth, but Collins delivered an RBI single in the seventh to extend the Tigers’ lead to 4–2.

The Jaguars responded with two runs in the bottom of the seventh to tie the game and force extra innings.

Specks gave Grambling State a brief 5–4 lead in the ninth inning with her second home run of the day. Southern answered in the bottom of the frame with a two-run single to secure the 6–5 win.

Specks paced the Tigers offensively in the second game, going 4 for 5 with three runs scored. Collins added two hits and two RBIs, while Jaidan Richard pitched a complete game in the circle.

 

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech will compete in the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament, facing off against Rice in Tudor Fieldhouse in Houston on Thursday, March 19th.

Game time and ticketing information will be released at a later time.

Tech and Rice are former Western Athletic Conference and Conference USA foes. The Lady Techsters lead the all-time series 17-16. 

The WBIT is a 32-team postseason tournament from March 20 (first-round), March 23 (second-round) and March 27 (quarterfinals), with the highest-seeded teams hosting games at campus sites. WBIT semifinal and final games will be conducted at Butler University’s historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on March 31 and April 2.

The Lady Techsters are automatic qualifiers after winning the 2026 Conference USA regular season, going 17-1 in league play. All 17 wins were in a row and is the longest winning streak in CUSA league play history.

Louisiana Tech is 26-6 on the season, the most wins by the program since 2005-06.

Paris Bradley was named to the All-Conference USA First Team on Monday, with Jordan Marshall and Jianna Morris on the Second Team, and Alexia Weaver making Honorable Mention. It is the most of any CUSA team this season. Bradley is one of three Lady Techsters ever to make the conference First Team, alongside Vickie Johnson and Tamicha Jackson, both of whom were Kodak All Americans.

Bradley, alongside Joy Madison-Key, were named to the CUSA All-Tournament team. Bradley made 13 threes on 59.1 percent shooting, leading the Lady Techsters in scoring every game in the tournament. Madison-Key led Louisiana Tech in assists every tournament game, recording nine in the semifinals victory over Delaware.

Rice (28-5, 17-1 American) was defeated by UTSA 54-40 in the American Championship game. The Owls are first in the country in free throw percentage at 81.6 percent.

The winner will face the winner of Kansas vs. Troy in the second round.

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Keith W. Elliott, aged 94 of Ruston LA, went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 12, 2026. Services for Mr. Elliott will be at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Rev. Dana Thrash and Rev. Brad Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the New Hope Cemetery of Gaars Mill, near Dodson, LA under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Keith was born July 4, 1931 at his home in Gaars Mill, LA to Lettie Kelly Elliott and Alfred Elliott. He went to be with the Lord on March 12, 2026.  Keith was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Fanny “Mae” Elliott, his parents, sister Cortez Elliott, and brother Kelly Elliott.

Keith is survived by his son Keith “Randy” Elliott and wife Donna of Jacksonville, FL, his daughter Linda Elliott Richardson and husband Scott of Choudrant, LA; grandsons:  Clint Richardson (Amanda), Zachry Richardson (Savannah); granddaughter Kayla Elliott, step- granddaughter Vanessa Guiel; seven great grandsons:  William, Harlan, Elijah, Colton, Danny, Landyn and Ezra. He is also survived by his nephew Brion Elliott (Cathy), a host of former coworkers, many friends and other relatives.

Keith’s hobbies included camping with The Caney Lake Good Sams, reading a good western, gardening, fishing for crappie, having coffee with the men at Ambrose Country store, and spending time with his family. He retired with 40 years of service from AT&T Company.  Keith was a member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church, and a Korea War veteran serving in the Navy aboard the Battleship USS Iowa. He was a member of Ruston Lodge #106 as a Master Mason and a member of Baraka Shrine Temple in Monroe and a member of Ruston VFW Post 3615. He also volunteered with Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s S.C.O.P. department.

Serving as pallbearers are Clint Richardson, Zachry Richardson, Jeff Burnham, Noah Borden

Honorary pallbearers are Randy Elliott, Brion Elliott, Slade Richard, members of the Caney Lake Good Sams camping club, coffee drinking buddies at Ambrose Country Store, and AT&T retirees.

The family would like to extend thanks to The War Veterans Home of Monroe LA, Passages Hospice, and Reeves Memorial Hospital for the wonderful care given to him.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to:  The Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, LA or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Monday, March 16, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel in Ruston. 

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A visitation service for Jackie Lou Holladay, age 90 of Ruston, LA will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston. A graveside service will be held at Keesee Cemetery in Monarch, AR at 10:00 AM, Friday, March 20, 2026.

Jackie was born on May 4, 1935 in Monarch, AR to Glessie Jenkins Anderson and Alva Francis Anderson and passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Ruston, LA. She spent more than 30 years teaching Physical Education at Louisiana Tech, where she inspired and encouraged many students. She also taught at Tech Rome. Jackie attended School of the Ozarks in Hollister, Mo and she was a standout athlete and was named an All-State Basketball Player.

Outside of her career, she enjoyed many hobbies. Jackie enjoyed sewing and doing cross-stitch, reading, and searching for hidden treasures at garage sales. She loved flower gardening and she enjoyed traveling, as she had traveled all over the World. Above all, Jackie cherished her grandchildren and her great grandchildren and treasured the time spent with her family, especially during the holidays.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents; her grandson, Matthew David Pyle; and 9 siblings: Mildred, Betty Jo, Sue, Eileen, Neil, George, Ted, Billy, and Francis. She is survived by her sons, Steve Pyle and wife Milagro and Larry Pyle; grandchildren: Chris and Kelly Pyle, Jason and Samantha Pyle, Julia Pyle, Sintia Arias, Jennifer Arias and Chris Jett, Stephany Arias, several great-grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

Jackie will be remembered for her love of family, her dedication to teaching, and the many lives she touched along the way. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all that loved her.

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Ella L. Jones 
Tuesday 08/20/1940 — Tuesday 03/10/2026  
Visitation: Friday 03/20/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Saturday 03/21/2026 11:00am, Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ, 1405 South Farmerville Street, Ruston 
Interment: Saturday 03/21/2026 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, US Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Jerome Dimmer 
Friday 06/07/1957 — Wednesday 03/11/2026  
Family Gathering: Friday 03/20/2026 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Visitation: Friday 03/20/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Saturday 03/21/2026 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home 
Interment: Saturday 03/21/2026 Following Service, Ebenezer Cemetery, Parish Road 214, Ruston 

Keith Wallace Elliott 
July 4, 1931 – March 12, 2026 
Visitation: Monday, March 16, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel 
Funeral service: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel 
Cemetery Committal: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 12:00 PM, New Hope Cemetery – Dodson, 7223 LA-126, Dodson 

Jackie Lou Holladay 
April 19, 1935 – March 12, 2026 
Visitation: Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 
Graveside: Friday, March 20, 2026, 10:00 AM, Keesee Cemetery, Monarch, AR 

Gerald Van Lyles 
June 21, 1947 – March 12, 2026 
Memorial Visitation: Monday, March 23, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

A resilient defensive effort and relentless work on the glass kept the game within reach, but an ice-cold shooting night ultimately proved too much for Louisiana Tech as the Bulldogs fell 71-60 to Kennesaw State in the title game of the 2026 Air National Guard Conference USA Men’s Basketball Championship on Saturday night inside VBC Propst Arena.

No. 4 seed LA Tech (20-14) battled throughout the night to slow down one of the league’s most explosive offenses in No. 6 seed KSU (21-13). One area where the Bulldogs found success was on the glass, pulling down 45 rebounds, including 23 on the offensive end.

However, shots that had fallen throughout the four-game winning streak leading into the championship refused to drop against the Owls. LA Tech finished just 22-of-72 from the field and 2-of-28 from three-point range.

“I am so proud of this team,” said Tech head coach Talvin Hester. “This team fought, they scrapped. They were together. They represented our university in the right way. I will never have this team again. That is the sad part for me. I will never have this collection of men again.”

Despite the offensive struggles, the Bulldogs remained within striking distance. The two teams traded punches in the first half, which featured five ties and seven lead changes before KSU carried a slim 35-32 advantage into halftime.

The Owls first tried to create separation midway through the second half, building a 55-46 lead with 10:25 remaining. LA Tech responded with a 6-0 run, ignited by a Kaden Cooper slam dunk. A driving layup by DJ Dudley followed by two made free throws from Avery Thomas II cut the deficit to three at 55-52 with 8:42 to play.

Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, the offense went cold down the stretch as LA Tech made just two of its final 19 field goal attempts. Meanwhile, KSU connected on five straight field goals during a decisive 10-2 run that created enough separation for the Owls to close it out.

Thomas II, who was named to the CUSA All-Tournament Team, recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. The sophomore forward averaged 10.7 points and 10.3 boards across the three games in Huntsville.

AJ Bates also earned CUSA All-Tournament Team honors after finishing with six points and eight assists in the title game. Over the three contests, the sophomore point guard averaged 20.7 points and 6.7 assists.

“Will Allen poured his blood, sweat, and tears into this university in an era where there is no commitment in the game of college basketball,” said Hester. “He will leave as a very beloved Bulldog. AJ Bates, he was the head of our snake. Proud of the way he fought to give ourselves a chance to play for a conference championship.”

Scooter Williams provided a spark off the bench with 10 points, while Cooper nearly posted a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds. Sir Issac Herron added eight points, and fifth-year senior Will Allen, playing in his 122nd career game as a Bulldog, chipped in three points and seven rebounds.

“Louisiana Tech has been a second home for me,” said Allen. “My older brother played football at Tech so in high school we came up to Ruston. It was already a second home for me then. There was no second guessing on where I was going to go to school.

“This was a rough year for me. These coaches have been there for me on my roughest days. I lost my mom, and they were there at the funeral. This coaching staff means the world to me. I have so much love for them.”

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LAKE CHARLES – The drought continues.

Ruston’s hopes of a long-awaited ending to its 38-year quest to win another boys basketball state championship will have to wait at least one more year.

The Bearcats (23-4) lost a heartbreaker to No. 1 seed Zachary, 63-60, in the Division I Non-Select state championship game at Burton Coliseum Saturday night.

As they struggled shooting the ball all night against Zachary’s athletic defense, junior center Ahmad Hudson nearly willed the Bearcats to a state championship. The 6-foot-7 superstar was brilliant, turning in nearly a triple-double with 34 points, 24 rebounds, seven blocks and four steals.

Ruston coach Marcus Jackson described Hudson’s production Saturday night as “huge” and said that he put on a “heck of a performance.”

“He can definitely change the game by the way he plays,” Jackson said. “He’s effective in multiple ways and can put teams in bad positions.”

Zachary (30-2) held the lead for most of the game, tying the game at 15 with a buzzer-beating 3-pointer by junior Ian Edmond at the end of the first quarter and taking the lead on a layup by junior Ethan Kimmie less than 30 seconds into the second quarter.

The Broncos maintained that lead throughout the second and third quarters, leading by six at the break and by as many as 10 midway through the third quarter.

However, behind stellar play from Hudson and sophomore guard Darren Ford, the second-seeded Bearcats chipped away at Zachary’s lead. They cut it to three late in the third quarter on a Hudson layup before Zachary pushed it back to 47-41 with a 3-pointer at the buzzer following one of Ruston’s turnovers.

Despite picking up his fourth foul early in the fourth quarter, Hudson continued to impose his will against the Broncos. He scored three straight baskets, including an and-1 at the 6:11 mark to cut Zachary’s lead to three. Following a Ford basket, Hudson’s putback with just under five minutes remaining in the game gave the Bearcats a 50-49 lead, their first since the first quarter.

Zachary responded with four straight points before Ruston junior Keshun Malcolm scored his only bucket of the game, and Hudson’s monster two-handed slam put the Bearcats back on top 54-53 with 3:33 to play.

But the Broncos, as they had all night, responded with clutch buckets, retaking the lead at the 3:05 mark and again with 2:34 left. It’s a lead they wouldn’t relinquish as they made their free throws and forced Ruston to take tough, contested shots down the stretch.

Edmond, who led the Broncos with 20 points on 6-of-20 shooting, was named the game’s Most Outstanding Player as Zachary repeated as state champions for the second time in the past six years.

The Broncos got much-needed contributions from eight different players, who combined to shoot 42 percent from the field and 41 percent from 3. Kimmie added 12 points, while junior Mason Newman finished with 11.

Ruston, meanwhile, got extremely little production on the offensive end from anyone other than Hudson and Ford, who combined for 51 of the Bearcats’ 60 points. Malcolm (seven points) and junior Jasen Morgan (two points) were the only other Ruston players to score.

“I feel like I could have done a lot more,” said Ford, who scored 13 of his 19 points in the first half. “If we didn’t win the game, then I didn’t do enough.”

Hudson and Ford combined to knock down 19 of their 32 field-goal attempts, but the rest of the Bearcats connected on only two of their 21 shots. Ruston missed all 12 of its 3-point attempts in the game.

“Darren played well, made some shots and kept us in it early,” Jackson said. “I’m proud of ‘em. There’s times where they could have quit. They kept fighting back, climbing back in, climbing back in, climbing in, fighting through adversity.”

Jackson said early foul trouble forced the Bearcats to adjust their game plan, and they even played some zone defense for the first time all season. He credited the Broncos’ coaching staff for switching defenses and forcing the Bearcats into an uncharacteristic number of turnovers.

“They sped us up,” Jackson said. “We made a lot of unforced turnovers that we normally don’t make. That’s the highest turnovers we’ve had all year.”

Although they came up painfully short on Saturday night, the Bearcats celebrated their deepest playoff run in 38 years and have much to look forward to during the 2026-27 season. Backup point guard Zaterrion Sutton, who missed most of the season due to injury, was the only senior who saw the floor against Zachary, and seven of the nine players who did play Saturday will be seniors next year.

Hudson said he was proud of his teammates for the way they played Saturday and for an outstanding season. However, he and Ford already are looking forward to a possible rematch with the two-time defending champions.

“We will be back, and I hope it’s against Zachary – because I’m not gonna let that one slip away again,” Hudson said.

“I know how it feels to lose, so I don’t want to do that again,” Ford said.

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by Malcolm Butler

In a basketball game turned rock fight, Missouri State knocked off regular season champion Louisiana Tech 43-38 Saturday afternoon in the CUSA Championship game in Huntsville.

The loss snapped Tech’s 19-game winning streak and leads to a WBIT berth for the Lady Techsters (26-6).

Tech head coach Brooke Stoehr gave an emotional answer when asked about the disappointment of coming up short in the bid for the first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2011. 

“I wouldn’t want to be in any other lockerroom then the group that we have gotten to enjoy and the privilege to coach and be around all year,” said Stoehr. “My message to them is you don’t let one day define who you are. Today is not indicative of the year that they have had, the season they have had, and the journey that they have taken.”

Tech led 16-12 after the first quarter and 26-23 at halftime, but the Lady Techsters hit just 5-of-32 field goals over the final 20 minutes of play. 

Leading 37-31 heading into the fourth quarter, Missouri State hit a shot on its first possession to increase the lead to eight points. However, it would be the last field goal the Lady Bears would make in the game. 

Tech sophomore guard Paris Bradley, who ended with 14 points and 8 boards, made a shot at the 8:05 mark to close the score to with 39-33 … but it would be the last points by either team for more than seven and a half minutes of play.

A Bradley 3-pointer with :33 seconds to play cut the margin to 39-36, but Missouri State hit four free throws down the stretch to seal the win. 

“It’s been over 60 or 70 days since we experienced (a loss), and it’s hard,” said Stoehr. “We wanted nothing more for this group to be the one that got us over the hump, but today wasn’t our day. Tip your cap to Missouri State.”

Both teams applied relentless defensive pressure over the final two quarters as the game became increasingly physical with hardly any fouls called on either end. Tech shot just four free throws while the Bears attempted just 10 — with four of those coming in the final 30 seconds when the Lady Techsters were intentionally fouling. 

In the postgame press conference, Bradley talked about her team’s compassion for each other and how it has led to this year’s success. 

“Jordan (Marshall) said it the first day we were here,” said Bradley. “She said, ‘Love wins.’ And it does. As long as we stick together, we will be fine. 

“Staying together and showing up and working. We have to thrive in that 1 percent. We have to take it day by day, and focus on one goal at a time.”

In addition to Bradley’s performance, Averi Aaron added 12 points and 8 rebounds. 

Kaemyn Bechemier led Missouri State with 16 points.

Tech will learn it’s WBIT match-up on Sunday at 8 p.m. 

 

 

 

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by Malcolm Butler

Trailing by six points at the half and their hopes of an NCAA Tournament berth in jeopardy, Louisiana Tech got downright defensive against Liberty.

The Lady Techsters (27-5) held the Flames to just 17 points in the second half and rallied for a 61-48 win to advance to the Conference USA championship game for the first time since 2022.

“It was just an unbelievably gritty, tough game by both teams,” said Stoehr. “I think you have to give Liberty a lot of credit. I thought they forced tempo and played the pace that they wanted the game to be at for a majority of the game.”

After Liberty shot over 50 percent from the field in the opening two quarters to build a 31-25 halftime lead, the Lady Techsters picked up their defensive intensity over the final 20 minutes. Tech held the Flames to just 6-of-27 from the field, including 2-of-13 from the three-point line. 

“I can’t say enough about the resilience and the toughness and grit of our group,” said Stoehr. “To come back and defend the way they did in the second half, only giving up 17 points, and that’s who this group has grown into all year long. We just said, stay true to who you are, and they did that beautifully, and it’s a really, really fun thing to see when they celebrate each other and they play together with that toughness and that grit.”

Tech trailed 39-38 heading into the final quarter and that’s when the Lady Techsters showed why they are the Conference USA regular season champions, outscoring Liberty 23-9. 

However, it didn’t come without some dramatics.

Tech led 46-39 with just over six minutes to play when the Flames used a 7-2 run, including a three-pointer by Avery Mills with exactly 5:00 minutes to play to cut the deficit to 48-46. 

On the ensuing offensive possession for Tech, the best player in Conference USA showed why. 

Paris Bradley calmly sank a corner three-pointer that started an 11-0 run to seal the victory.

“We were in a play, and Jianna did a good job of drawing my defender,” said Bradley. “Jianna is a really good athlete and scorer and so they have to help on her. So she drew my defender, and I just lifted and moved with her and got to the open space. And I was able to hit the shot.”

It was one of four three-pointers by Bradley, who set the sophomore 3-pointers made record for Tech and finished with 14 points, three rebounds and two steals.

“I thought we had a bunch of opportunities in the third quarter and just didn’t convert,” said Stoehr. “But I thought we converted them in the fourth quarter. We stayed true and we stayed the course of who we have been all year … and when we went back to that when it mattered most, we came through.”

Tech hit 22-of-29 free throws in the game which helped the Lady Techsters overcome a minus nine in the rebound column.

Sophomore Jordan Marshall came up big for Tech in the win, scoring 14 points and grabbing six rebounds.

“Coach Brooke told me to stay in it, and that I know who I am,” said Marshall. “I know my identity. God is so good. I just told myself, that I know me, and He knows me, and I just wanted to go out there and do everything to the best of my ability.”

Tech outscored Liberty 20-9 on points off of turnovers, forcing 15 by the Flames.

Tech will play Missouri State Saturday at 4:30 p.m. with a berth to the NCAA Tournament on the line.

 

 

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

The Lincoln Preparatory School basketball team has won all season long thanks to its suffocating defense.

But during Friday’s Division IV Boys Select School state championship game, the Panthers did it with offense, too.

Lincoln Prep led from start to finish inside Barton Coliseum in Lake Charles to defeat Southern Lab 69-42 for the first state title for a Grambling high school since what was then known as Grambling Laboratory School defeated White Castle 52-49.

Panthers sophomore Jabari Levingston earned MVP honors with a 28-point performance for a team that connected on 68% of its shots from the floor and went 22-of-28 at the free throw line.

“This is bigger than what you may know,” said Panthers coach Antonio Hudson, who as a Grambling Lab Kitten never defeated Southern Lab in three postseason tries, including the 2000 Class 1A state title game.  “I was talking to (former Grambling Lab coach Michael Lyon’s son last night). The last championship (for a Grambling high school) was won on Friday, March 13, 1992. Exactly 34 years to the day. 

“And to do it against a great team like Southern Lab with a great coach — our city, our community, these players, they deserve this.”

So did the Panthers’ head coach, who has now led his team to four straight trips to Marsh Madness.

“Grambling is everything to me,” Hudson said. “It took a little kid, turned me into a basketball player and gave me a chance to go to LSU and all of that means so much. People don’t realize what the school has been through. The school almost closed. We didn’t have anywhere to practice, anywhere to play.

“But we were resilient and continued to fight. It’s that resiliency and playing for the community kept us going. To finally get a championship after more than 30 years is just amazing.”

Lincoln Prep began the game by forcing three Southern Lab turnovers and led 17-9  at the end of the opening stanza and 32-24 at halftime after the Kittens closed out the second quarter with a 6-2 run to cut the Panthers’ lead back down to eight points heading into the locker room.

But Lincoln Prep outscored the Kittens 18-6 in the third quarter to build a 20-point lead at 50-30 heading into the final stanza.

“While Hudson credited his players for the win, they returned the favor in acknowledging their coach.

“The game plan, the mentality, the work we put in. all of that was the difference,” Levingston said. “We trusted it. We trusted Coach Hud.”

Spann added 16 points and six rebounds for the Panthers while Hicks chipped in with 12 points and nine boards.

Hudson admitted relief in watching his senior players finally earn a state championship.

“We’ve focused on defense all year,” Hudson said. “The players put in the work. Even when they didn’t want to, they never said anything, They just continued to trust the process. 

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