HOT SPRINGS — Tournament most valuable player Megan Herbert scored 26 points to lead Shiloh Christian to a 51-45 victory Thursday night over Lonoke in the girls Class 4A championship game.
The title is the first for the Lady Saints (34-1). Lonoke, which won the state title in 1977, was state runner-up for the third straight year.
"I am amazed at how we played, Shiloh coach Vic Rimmer said. "We defended awfully well. It was our best defensive game of the year. They really attack the lane.
Shiloh lost in the Class 3A title game to Marshall two years ago.
"Its been a long way back, Rimmer said. "And I feel for Lonoke, having been here three years in a row.
Lonoke (26-8) lost to Central Arkansas Christian and Huntsville in title games the last two years.
"It doesnt get any easier, Lonoke coach Nathan Morris said. "Theres not a dry eye in our dressing room. Im proud of this team for fighting back and making a game of it.
The Lady Rabbits trailed most of the game. Shiloh led 11-7 after one quarter and 22-16 at halftime. With one quarter left, the Lady Saints were up 29-26.
But Lonoke grabbed the lead with 3:48 left on a layup by Ashleigh Himstedt. The Lady Rabbits never led again, but the game was tied at 39-39 with 2:24 remaining.
Himstedt led Lonoke with 16 points and sophomore Cara Neighbors added 15.