The Clinton Lady Maroons entered the CIC Tournament championship riding a 17-game winning streak, with one goal in mind: repeat as conference champions. Standing in their way were the Meridian Hawks, led by Kyle Woolington, hoping to spoil the party and end Clinton’s dominant run.
Despite a later-than-usual tip, the championship atmosphere was undeniable as a strong crowd from both sides filled the gym for the title showdown.
The opening quarter featured back-and-forth action, with Meridian doing what it does best—attacking the basket and finishing inside. Julia Meisenhelter and Natalie Reynolds powered the Hawks’ offense in the first half, keeping Meridian within striking distance early.
Clinton countered with sharp perimeter shooting and balanced offense. Clara Dempsey caught fire early, knocking down multiple three-pointers while also setting the tone as the floor general. Dempsey consistently found her teammates, dishing assists to Lilah Cluver down low and Avery Smith, who worked efficiently in the paint.
Despite Clinton’s strong play, the Lady Maroons held just a 22–16 lead after the first quarter and knew they needed another gear. That gear came in the second quarter.
Coach Josh Williams’ fast-paced “Race Cars” offense kicked into overdrive, allowing Clinton to attack in transition and stretch the lead. The Lady Maroons dominated the quarter, heading into halftime with a commanding 36–19 advantage, though they knew the job was far from finished.
The third quarter slowed as fatigue and frustration set in, resulting in fouls on both sides. Meridian’s top scorer, Shelby Renfro, began to find her rhythm and put together a scoring surge. But every Hawks run was answered by Clinton’s dynamic starting five—Lilah Cluver, Clara Dempsey, Carly Anderson, Averie Fatheree, and Avery Smith.
Clinton’s strength inside produced multiple and-one opportunities, while timely three-pointers kept the momentum firmly on the Maroons’ side. The quarter ended in dramatic fashion as a late Clinton turnover led to a Meridian buzzer-beater—proof that even mistakes can create memorable moments.
In the fourth quarter, Clinton left no doubt. The Lady Maroons pulled away decisively, triggering a running clock and sealing their second consecutive CIC Tournament Championship.
After the game, Dempsey summed up the offensive explosion with a smile.
“They banged out several threes, and it was barbecue chicken from there,” she said. “I can’t be more grateful for this team and our coaches. It’s a 2-peat for us tonight.”
Coach Josh Williams reflected on how far the program has come.
“For years we were the runner-ups in this tournament,” Williams said. “We’re finally getting over the hump, and it shows where this program is going. This is a special group—averaging 61 points a game and nearly one point per possession.”
With another trophy in hand and momentum still rolling, the Lady Maroons continue to prove they aren’t just winning—they’re building something special.
Clara Dempsey talks CIC Championship
Lilah Cluver takes it coast to coast
Great ball movement ends in Clara Dempsey finish
Ball movement to Perfection. Avery Smith finishes it off.