Out- Manned
The J.L. Mann Lady Patriots prove to be too much for the Lady Falcons.
A.C. Flora 47
J.L. Mann 63
Photos and Story
by Pam Clark

A.C. Flora's Tiara Knotts tries to get through the J.L. Mann defense. Knotts scored a game- high 23 points.

The A.C. Flora Lady Falcons had a disappointing Saturday, losing the upper state championship to the J.L. Mann Lady Patriots 63- 47 in the S.C. Class 3A division held in Greenville's BiLo Center Feb. 24.

The Lady Falcons lost the tip off to the Patriots and stayed behind the rest of the game. This was A.C. Flora's third year in a row in the playoffs and they were determined to beat J.L. Mann, the defending state champion. The Lady Falcons had plenty of fans that made the two hour trip to support their effort, but they missed too many easy shots and most of their free throws.

According to Flora's Coach Patti Moore, the Lady Patriots' inside attack was stronger, they out rebounded A.C. Flora and they had four players in double figures. Moore said Flora turned the ball over too much, but never gave up. The Lady Falcons cut the Patriot lead to five points after being down by as much as 13. During the third period, just as Flora looked as if they might make a come back, they lost key player Tierra Scott to a dislocated knee cap. Disappointed, but not giving up, the Lady Falcons played hard till the very end.

A.C. Flora's Emani Harrison runs back on defense. Harrison scored eight points.

Coach Moore stated her team was really focused and developed a work ethic the last month that was spectacular. She added the rise in maturity level that occured made this team one of the most enjoyable for her to coach in 14 years at A.C. Flora.

"The Flora girls are still a young team, losing one senior, Tarika Sumter. I'm sure they'll be in the playoffs again next year", stated team manager Glenn Podewil.

A.C. Flora: Tiara Knotts 23, Emani Harrison 8, Kim Roach 7, Jasmine Stubbs 5, Tierra Scott 4. J.L. Mann: Burton 20, Glymph 12, Rutledge 11, Ryals 11, Henley 7, Welfare 2. A.C. Flora fans and cheerleaders made the trip to Greenville.