February 22, 2005

                                    Lady Jags Season Comes to End

The Lady Jags turn around season came to an end tonight, as they took a disappointing 43-40 loss to a much less talented Enka team, in the first round of the state playoffs. The Jags once again proved they can't be successful in a half court game, shooting 28% (13-47) from the floor.

Forestview controlled the first two quarters, taking a 22-16 lead into intermission, forcing Enka into 13 first half turnovers. Enka stayed close with offensive rebounding though, hitting 7-20 from the floor.

The visiting Jets continued to pick apart the Jags inside in the third quarter, as they outscored Forestview 20-13, to lead 36-35 going into the final eight minutes. Another key factor was their reduction in turnovers. They turned the ball over only 5 times in the entire second half.

Whitney tried to pull the Jags through, tying the game at 38-38 with her third three pointer, with about three minutes remaining. Enka had held the ball for the first few minutes of the final quarter, before forcing the Jags into a man defense.

The Jags had the ball with a little over a minute remaining and the score tied 40-40, but turned it over, resulting in a Enka layup. The Jags committed 23 turnovers on the night, most of them unforced.

Whit finished as the only Jag in double figures with 13 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and only 2 turnovers. She was 4-10 from the floor, including 3-7 from the arc.

Forestview finishes the season at 17-10, clearly an improvement over last season's 9-16 record. However, five of the losses came by 7 points or less and all five should have been won.

We'll recap the season sometime in the next week or so, but most thankfully, we are overjoyed at Whitney getting through the season injury free.

February 16, 2005

Jags Ousted From Conference Tournament

The Lady Jags once again proved they are not a team that can successfully play a slow down game, as they were defeated by East Gaston, 45-37 for the second time in five days. The loss eliminates the 17-9 Jags from the Big South Conference Tournament.

East Gaston sat back in a zone and dared the Jags to shoot, but the Jags could only connect on 13 of 56 from the floor (23%). Forestview did not attempt to find Whit looks, especially in the second half with the game close. Whit finished with a game high 11 points on 3-10 shooting, to go along with 3 rebounds and 4 assists. But she only got three second half attempts, as Jag post players tried to get on track. It wasn't to be though, as they connected on only 4-17 in the final two quarters.

Forestview outrebounded the Warriors 37-26, but the Jags gave up far too many offensive rebounds. East Gaston was 14-45 (31%) from the floor, including 5 first half threes. The Warriors went cold in the second half, but second chance points helped them keep an advantage.

The Jags play host to Enka in the first round of the state playoffs on Tuesday night.

February 14, 2005

Sluggish Jags Advance to Conference Semis

Whether it's fatigue, disinterest or a lack of heart, the Lady Jags have hit a roadblock in what has been a successful season. The Jags were outplayed for the fourth consecutive game, yet still managed to advance in the Big South Tournament, with a 57-52 win over North Gaston.

Forestview (17-8) was outscored in three of the four quarters and out hustled in all four quarters. The much bigger Jags only outrebounded the Wildcats 34-30, with both teams shooting 35% from the floor.

Whit finished with 7 points, 4 rebounds and 4 steals, hitting a couple of threes on only six shot attempts. Once again, the Jag offense was centered around the front court, as they took 41 of the Jags 60 field goal attempts.

Whit's overall floor play was instrumental in the Jags building a 29-15 halftime lead. Forestview had but 5 first half turnovers and seemed headed for a season low. However, lackluster passing in the second half accounted for 14 turnovers and enabled the Wildcats  to stay in striking distance.

The Jags gained some momentum through a three minute run in the fourth and held a 54-39 lead with 3:00 remaining. The Jags lost that momentum after a couple of substitutions and the Wildcats closed the game with a 13-3 run to close the final margin.

The Jags play the Berry Academy/East Gaston winner Wednesday, at 6:00 at Hunter Huss in the semi-finals.

February 11,2005

              Ailing Jags Lose Second Straight; Finish Third

The Jags gave another lackluster performance tonight, and found themselves on the short end of a 58-43 loss to East Gaston. The loss means the Jags finish in third place in the Big South 3-A Conference, with a 16-8 overall record and 11-3 conference mark.

Not to make excuses, but several Jag players were under the weather with flu like symptoms, including Whit, who led Jag scorers with 11 points, including three three-pointers. She added 3 boards and 2 assists.

The Warriors played a slow down game, holding the Jags to a season low 39 field goal attempts. Additionally, the Warriors zone defense all but eliminated the effectiveness of the Jags post players.

More importantly may have been the rebounding numbers, where the Jags were out rebounded by the much smaller Warriors, 22-15. East Gaston allowed the Jags almost no second shot opportunities. East Gaston just wanted the game more than the Jags did tonight.

Congratulations to Hunter Huss, this year's regular season conference champions and to East Gaston for finishing second.

February 8, 2005

Blackmon Holds Court; Huskies Down Jags

The war that "some" expected in the middle, materialized into nothing more than a skirmish, as Georgia Tech bound Tiffany Blackmon scored 18 points, grabbed 16 rebounds and blocked 7 shots, in leading Hunter Huss past the Lady Jags 66-49. The win all but assures the Huskies of the Big South Conference title, while the Jags regular season finale against East Gaston this Friday, is probably a battle for second place.

Blackmon completely dominated the game on the defensive end, blocking the first three shot attempts that came at her. The Jags continued to pound the ball inside throughout the game, but to no avail.

Forestview managed but 44 field goal attempts on the night, and unlike the first time these teams met, the bigger Jags could not out rebound the Huskies. Their failure to control the defensive boards prevented them from getting into their transition game, the primary thing they need to be successful.

Whit managed but 4 points, a rebound and 3 assists, as the Huss defense did not allow her open looks. As the Jags philosophy was to go inside all night, this pretty much regulated Whit to just running the offense.

The Jags now 16-7 close out the regular season Friday at East Gaston.

February 4, 2005

Lackluster Jags Win Sixth Straight

Despite a horrendous shooting performance, the Lady Jags won their sixth straight, defeating Ashbrook 49-36. It marked the first time this season the Jags had won while scoring less than 52 points. The Jags went 14-58 (24%) for their second worst shooting performance of the year. They were saved only by the fact the Green Wave shot 17% (10-58).

Whit played a solid all-around game, but was only 2-10 from the floor and 2-4 from the line. She did manage 4 rebounds and 4 assists, but most importantly, no turnovers, finishing with 8 points. Whit was able to get in the paint several times tonight and find teammates for layups, but lost the assists when they were fouled. All in all, a real good effort on her part though.

Forestview had their lowest turnover game of the season with just 14, including just 6 through three quarters. The Jags were out hustled in this one though, seeming to take this opponent too lightly.

Tonight's win sets up a conference championship match up on Tuesday against the defending champion Hunter Huss Huskies. The Huskies defeated the Jags 57-48 earlier in the season for the Jags only conference loss. Huss has since been beaten by East Gaston for their only conference loss. A Huss win all but assures them of the conference title outright. A Jag win guarantees them at least a share of the title, as they will then travel to East Gaston on Friday night.

The Jags(16-6, 11-1) need good practices on Saturday and Monday heading into their biggest game in two years, if they are to come out victorious. Huss is led by 6'1 junior Tiffany Blackmon, Whit's best friend. Tiff has already verbally committed to Georgia Tech.

February 1, 2005

Jags Oust South Point 63-54 (video)

Whitney scored 14 points, handed out 4 assists and grabbed 4 rebounds as she led the Lady Jags to a 63-54 win over South Point, to keep the Jags tied for first place in the Big South Conference. It was the Jags fifth straight win and eight of their last nine.

Whit hit an early three and handed out three quick assists as the Jags jumped to an early lead. She picked up her second foul with three minutes remaining in the opening quarter, which sent her to the bench, but the Jags still led 17-6 after the first eight minutes.

Whit added a three and a mid-range basket early in the second, before the Raiders went to a box and one. It was to no avail though, as the Jags found other ways of scoring. She finished 3-8 from the field, with a pair of threes and 6-6 from the free throw line, while committing just two turnovers.

South Point, which shot a dismal 25% in the first meeting between these teams, played much better tonight, going 21-47 (45%) from the floor. They continuously scored at will inside, as the Jags interior defense was non-existent. Their 21 turnovers were costly though, as this limited their shot opportunities.

Forestview shot 37% (20-53) and converted 20-25 from the free throw line, while turning the ball over a season low 15 times. This was in large part due to the Jags playing a slow down style about half of the game, but that strategy kept the game closer than it should have been.

Jessica Capers added 14, while Jasmine Camp scored 10 points to go along with 5 assists. Forestview, now 15-6 overall and 10-1 in the conference, plays at Ashbrook Friday night.

January 28, 2005

Forestview Moves Into First Place Tie (video)

The Lady Jags "held serve" and got some help, as they defeated North Gaston 56-37 and moved into a first place tie with Hunter Huss, who lost to East Gaston tonight. Tonight's game was not as close as the score indicated, as the Warriors scored 10 points in the final two minutes.

Forestview jumped to a 21-4 lead with a couple of minutes to go in the first half, before the Warriors scored two baskets to close to 21-8 at intermission. The Jags put the game away in the third quarter though, outscoring the Warriors 23-12 to lead 44-20 after three quarters.

Whit finished with 10 points on 4-12 shooting, while grabbing 1 rebound, to go along with 2 assists, 3 steals and 3 turnovers, playing roughly three quarters. The Warriors were intent on pressuring Whit up the floor the entire evening, but it was to no avail.

Whit's biggest feat tonight was her defense though. North Gaston's Monica Johnson, the leading scorer in the conference, scored 21 points, but only 6 through the first three quarters, and only 11 with Whit in the game.

Jessica Capers led the Jags with 13 rebounds, while scoring 12 points on 4 of 18 shooting. Ashley Greeson added 10 rebounds and 4 assists.

Now 14-6 on the season, including 9-1 in the Big South Conference, the Lady Jags have nothing but crucial games left on the schedule. They play host to South Point on Tuesday, a team they beat 54-50 in overtime three weeks ago. The Raiders are playing well of late though, and this will be a tough challenge for the Jags.

January 25, 2005

   Jags Win Third Straight (video)

The Lady Jags won their third straight and six of seven, with a 77-57 win over last place East Lincoln. The Jags (13-6, 8-1) overcame a sluggish start which found them trailing 14-6 with three minutes remaining in the first quarter. Forestview pounded the ball inside almost exclusively in the early going, hitting only 2 of 8 from point blank range, with both baskets coming off of offensive rebounds. They then began to press and went on a 24-0 run to take a 30-14 lead just a few minutes into the second quarter.

Whitney played a great floor game, finishing with 11 points and 7 assists to go along with 3 rebounds and 3 steals, despite playing just a little over three quarters. She connected on 3-7 from the floor, including 2-2 from the arc and 3-4 from the free throw line.

Whit's biggest contribution was her passing though. The Jags shot 47% (31-67) from the floor, largely in part to Whit advancing the ball up the floor and getting her teammates layups. The Jags half court offense was pretty ineffective, but the up tempo game was enough to spur them to victory.

Five Jags scored in double figures, with layups accounting for 25 of the 31 made field goals.

Forestview will travel to North Gaston on Friday, a team they beat 64-53 earlier in the season.

January 21, 2005

Forestview Captures 12th Win

Although sloppy at times, the Lady Jags played well enough to defeat Berry Academy 56-48 to improve to 12-6 on the season and retain sole possession of second place in the Big South Conference at 7-1.

The Jags shot 44% from the floor, getting mostly layups from breaking the Berry pressure. Forestview attempted but 4 shots from three point range the entire night, their lowest total of the season.

Whit played adequately considering the circumstances, finishing with 5 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals and 6 assists.

Forestview plays host to East Lincoln on Tuesday.

Our family would like to thank everyone for their prayers during this past week. As you may guess it has been quite hard on Whitney and we would especially like to thank everyone for the kindness shown to her.

January 18, 2005

                            Jags Defeat Warriors 88-85 In Double Overtime

Whitney has played games in physical discomfort many times for various reasons. However, tonight was her toughest challenge ever, playing less than 48 hours after the passing of her grandmother. Although she was not her "usual" self, Whit came up big when it counted and helped the Jags to a 88-85 double overtime win over the East Gaston Warriors to gain sole possession of second place in the Big South Conference.

It was her teammates night though, as freshman Jessica Capers scored 31 points and pulled down 20 rebounds, while Hayley Anderson added 25 points and 8 boards. Whit's backcourt mate, Jasmine Camp chipped in with 15 points and 9 assists, while Ryan Gallagher added 12 points.

Whit finished with only 2 points, to go along with 5 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals. It was a big assist with :02 seconds remaining in regulation that was the big game play of the night, as she needled a pass to Capers cutting to the basket to send the game into overtime.

The Jags (11-6, 6-1) not only led the entire game, but dominated in most aspects. The well-coached Warriors would not quit though, to their credit, and outscored the Jags 31-19 in the fourth quarter.

Forestview shot a blistering 57% from the floor (36-63) as the smaller Warriors had no answer for the Jags size. Amazingly, the Jags committed 39 turnovers in the game, but tonight seemed to be all or nothing. East Gaston's attempt at pressing was not successful until the fourth quarter as the Jags broke it for layups most of the night. The Jags outrebounded the Warriors 43-26 and also had 30 assists on their 36 baskets.

East Gaston shot 39% (30-76), but it was their lack of interior play, especially on defense, that cost them. Couple that with 6-24 shooting from the arc and you have a Forestview victory.

Tonight's win demonstrated something very important to the Jags squad, regarding their unselfish play. They are finally starting to realize that the victory pie has enough pieces for everyone, in some way, shape or form. Whit's teammates realized her focus was not totally on the game tonight, and for good reason. And although she is the leader of this team, everyone else raised the level of their game tonight to ensure a win.

Tonight's game marks the end of the first half of conference play. The Jags will play host to Berry Academy on Friday night.

We would like to thank everyone for the kind words and prayers regarding Whit's grandmother. It means the world to our family.

January 14, 2005

                           Gallant Jags Effort Falls Short (video)

The Jags executed their game plan to perfection, but unfortunately the defending champion Hunter Huss Huskies were up to the task as they handed Forestview their first conference loss of the season, 57-48. The Jags used a double team on Huss junior center Tiffany Blackmon, in an effort to force the Huskies to hit perimeter shots. They were successful in limiting Blackmon to seven field goal attempts, but Huss nailed nine treys to come away with the win.

The Jags led most of the way, jumping to a 12-2 lead after the first five minutes, as Huss didn't hit their first field goal until 2:25 of the quarter. Huss scored the last seven points of the quarter to cut the Jag lead to 12-9 after eight minutes. Forestview went on a 11-4 run to open the second period and led 23-13 with three minutes to go in the first half. Huss hit three threes to end the period though, cutting the Jags lead to 23-22 at intermission.

Whitney hit three treys of her own in the third quarter, as the Jags raced to a 37-30 lead with 3:21 remaining in the period. However, as they had all night, Huss countered, and cut the lead back to two at 42-40 going into the final eight minutes.

Forestview led 45-40 with just over five minutes to play, but managed only three points the rest of the way. Huss held a 51-48 lead with two minutes to go and the Jags started fouling at the 1:20 mark. Huss converted free throws down the stretch and held on for the win.

The Jags outshot their opponent 35% (18-51) to 25% (16-63), and beat them on the boards 39-32. Although Forestview shot 32% from the arc (6-19), Huss was 9-25 (36%). The big factor may have been in the turnover column though. Forestview committed 24 to the Huskies 7. The trademark Huss press was ineffective as they forced no turnovers in the backcourt and scored only once in transition the entire night. The Huskies uncharacteristically went into a zone in the second quarter and stayed there until the final eight minutes. But the Jags had trouble getting going in the half court set, and although Huss could not capitalize on the miscues, they did represent missed shot opportunities for the Jags.

Whitney had a nice game, scoring 15 points on 5-13 shooting, including 4-10 from the arc, despite the Huss defense focusing on her the entire evening. She added 5 rebounds, 2 assists, drew a charge foul and committed 4 turnovers, while playing all 32 minutes.

Freshman Jessica Capers led all scorers with 19 points, while pulling down 14 rebounds. Capers is averaging 14 rebounds a game over the last 4 games.

Despite the loss, the Jags (10-6, 5-1) now know they can compete with the best in the conference and their best days are ahead of the young team. They play host to East Gaston on Tuesday for sole possession of second place at the midway point of conference play.

January 11, 2005

             Forestview Wins; Remains Unbeaten In Conference (video)

The Lady Jags jumped to a twenty point lead at halftime, behind Whitney's 11 points and cruised to a 52-25 victory over Ashbrook. The win sets up a conference showdown this Friday when the Jags travel to Hunter Huss to play the defending champion Huskies. Huss was the preseason favorite to defend their title, so the Jags will have their hands full.

Whit was 4-7 from the floor, including a perfect 3-3 from three point range. She managed but one second half field goal attempt, but by then, the game was decided. She and Jasmine Camp led the Jags with 11 points each, while Jessica Capers hauled in 11 rebounds. Whit did not have a rebound or assist, the first time that has ever happened in her career. She did have three steals, two turnovers and she drew a charge foul.

Forestview shot 32% (18-57) from the floor but the Green Wave at 9-40 (23%) did not pose much of a threat. The Jags outrebounded the much smaller Ashbrook squad 44-20.

The team played three solid quarters, but was 1-8 from the floor with 10 turnovers in the third period. The Jags cannot afford a quarter like that if they are to stay in the game with the Huskies on Friday. Forestview finished tonight's game with 22 turnovers.

The Jags are now 10-5 on the season and tonight's win eclipses last year's season total.

January 7, 2005

                  Jags Snatch Victory From Jaws Of Defeat (video)

The Lady Jags played by far, their worst game of the year, yet used a late run in regulation and strong overtime play to somehow steal a 54-50 win from South Point in conference play.

Freshman Jessica Capers scored 13 points and hauled down 17 rebounds, despite being hampered with foul trouble. Capers is now averaging 8.1 rebounds per game.

Whit had an off shooting night (3-13), but a strong floor game with 4 assists, 4 boards, 5 steals, 5 turnovers and an all important blocked shot in overtime. She finished with 7 points, but came up big in the final four minutes when the Jags went on a late run to force the game into overtime. Whit hit a jumper and handed out an assist on consecutive possessions within a ninety second period. She also had a big blocked shot, coming from nowhere to dash the Raiders hopes.

Turnovers were clearly the Jags downfall in this one, as they committed a season high 35, including 20 in the first half. They trailed 22-20 at intermission as the offense was completely stagnant. Whit picked up her second foul and sat the final 5:50 of the second quarter.

Things only got worse in the third quarter, with the Red Raiders outscoring the Jags 13-4 to take a 35-24 lead into the final eight minutes. Forestview got the running game going in the final 8 minutes of regulation, scoring 8 straight to cut the lead to three at 35-32. After a South Point three pointer, the Jags went on a 10-0 run to take a 42-38 lead with 1:20 to go. The Raiders fought back with a pair of free throws and a back door layup and a jumper to lead 44-42 with :25 seconds to go. Capers then got a rebound bucket to tie it and Jasmine Camp came up with a steal by tipping the ball over to Whit at the end of regulation. Whit was fouled but the Jags weren't in the penalty and the game was sent into overtime.

Forestview completely controlled the extra period, giving them their ninth win of the season, tying last year's total for the entire season. The Jags, now 9-5, play host to Ashbrook on Tuesday.

January 4, 2005

                  Lady Jags Remain Unbeaten In Conference (video)

Despite playing in severe pain due to a physical ailment, Whitney scored 15 points and handed out 9 assists to help the Jags remain unbeaten in conference play with a 64-53 win over the North Gaston Wildcats. Reserve freshman center Jessica Capers added 13 points and a season best 15 rebounds.

Forestview (8-5, 3-0) outscored the Wildcats in every quarter, but the Wildcats stayed close behind Monica Johnson's 23 points. The two teams were nearly identical from the field, but the Jags connected on 18 of 22 free throws, compared to 3-9 for their opponent.

Whit, who also had 4 rebounds and 5 steals, was 3-7 from the floor, including 3-5 from the arc and 6-8 from the charity strip. It was a big defensive play with under two minutes to go that was the biggest play of the game though.

North Gaston went on a late run and had picked up some momentum, when Whit drew an open floor charge foul on Johnson, a friend of hers, to squelch the run. She also added two free throws in the final 1:30 to help seal the win.

Capers has given the Jags an added dimension they have not seen the likes of in Whit's short high school career. As an athletic big person, she has an opportunity to get every rebound. Last night it seemed as if she did. Her offensive game is starting to evolve also, with her making a few strong moves in the half court set.

Hayley Anderson added 14 points with Jasmine Camp and Ashley Greeson chipping in 7 each. Camp should be given some special credit for her help with the ball handling last night. Whit was really struggling physically but Camp played the perfect backcourt mate.

The Jags travel to South Point on Friday.

December 30, 2004

                   Jags Defense Goes Fishing In Disappointing Loss (video)

Mooresville hit 11 of their last 13 free throws as they handed the Lady Jags a 56-51 loss in the third place game of the First Charter Classic. The Jags interior defense was absent the entire game, as Mooresville shot 33 free throws and 41% from the field (17-41). Mooresville did not make a three pointer and made only 2 shots from outside of 15 feet.

Whitney had 13 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds and 3 steals, while committing 3 turnovers. For the second consecutive game, she played an outstanding floor game under constant pressure. Whit consistently got in the paint with penetration, but it wasn't quite enough.

Although the Jags had a ten point lead in the third quarter, this game was not a typical Jags game we have come to see over the last half a dozen games. Forestview managed but 21 first half field goal attempts and reverted back to their slow-down style of old. The Jags picked up the pace somewhat in the second half, but by then Mooresville had gained confidence they could play with the Jags.

Jessica Capers added 13 points and 5 rebounds, despite playing only about half of the contest. Capers, a freshman, led the Jags with 19 rebounds, while also scoring 17 points in the three game tournament. Ashley Greeson had 21 points and 12 rebounds during the tourney.

Whit finished with 23 points, 15 assists and 9 steals, while tying starting center Hayley Anderson for third on the team with 9 rebounds. It was Whit's floor game in the two losses that was more impressive than anything though. The Jags saw intense man defense both games and Whit was up to the challenge. Her durability in playing 30 and 32 minutes respectively in the two losses were also impressive.

The 7-5 Jags resume conference play Tuesday night at home against North Gaston.

December 29, 2004

                             Red-Hot South Caldwell Whip Jags (video)

South Caldwell shot a sizzling 60% from the floor and never let up, as they routed the Lady Jags 73-37 in the semi-finals of the First Charter Classic. The loss sends the Jags into the third place game against Mooresville at 3:30 on Thursday.

Forestview stayed reasonably close, trailing only 17-8 after the first eight minutes. But the Jags offense could never get on track as they had their second worst shooting performance of the year, hitting only 29%.

Jasmine Camp and Ryan Gallagher scored nine points apiece to lead the Jags. Whit finished with 5 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 steals. Jessica Capers led the Jags with 6 rebounds.

Whit played a good floor game, especially considering the pressure put on her by the South Caldwell defense. To hold up for 30 minutes against this type of intensity is a testament to Whitney's physical and mental conditioning.

Forestview is now 7-4 on the season.

December 28, 2004

                             Jags Open Holiday Tournament With Win (video)

Forestview ran out to a 19-1 lead after the first quarter, and cruised to a 61-30 win over Elkin in the opening round of the First Charter Holiday Classic. The much smaller Elkin team was overmatched from the onset, as the Lady Jags scored at will.

Whit saw limited minutes, playing less than half of the game, as the Jags were able to get all twelve players significant playing time. Whit finished with 5 points on 2-4 from the floor, hitting 1-2 from three-point range. She added a team high 5 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 turnover.

After scoring 24 points against North Lincoln three games ago, Whit has managed but 17 field goal attempts in the last three contests. Fortunately, she has handed out 17 assists in that same period. Whit is still shooting a scorching 45% from three point range, but the Jags can't seem to find her looks.

The Jags have now won four straight and six of seven, and stand at 7-3 on the season.

Despite an overwhelming size advantage, the Jags only outrebounded the Elks by a 29-25 margin. Elkin shot 12-57 (21%) from the floor, so there were plenty of rebounds to be had. Reserve center Jessica Capers had a team high 8 boards, followed by Whit, Jasmine Camp and Chrissy Buie with 3 each. This is now the sixth time in ten games Whit has been one of our top three rebounders.

Forestview shot 45% (24-53) from the floor and 8-18 from the arc. The Jags are now 38% from the floor on the year, while their opponents are at 29%.

They will play South Caldwell at 3:30 Wednesday afternoon in the semi-finals.

December 17, 2004

                              Jags Go to 2-0 in Conference Play (video)

The Lady Jags got a season high 21 points from freshman guard Jasmine Camp, including 4-7 from the arc, as they defeated East Lincoln 64-47 to go to 6-3 on the season. Camp was 8-19 from the floor.

Whit had a "Dow Jones" type game, contributing heavily in some areas, but also committing a season high 8 turnovers. Although a couple of these were "phantom" calls, this was still unusual for Whit. She was only 2-9 from the floor, hitting 1 of 2 threes, totaling 5 points. She was effective in finding the open person though, as she handed out 8 assists, to go along with 6 rebounds and 4 steals. It is her third consecutive game with 6 boards or more.

The Mustang defense was intent on not letting Whit beat them with her scoring, but this only opened the floor for Camp. Although Whit's scoring was not there tonight, her defense was once again stellar and she did reach a season high in assists. Obviously she was not happy with her turnovers though, especially those that were unforced.

Ashley Greeson was solid with 8 points and a team high 9 rebounds, while Caitlyn Clement had 8 points and 8 boards. Starting center Hayley Anderson added 15. Despite a 38-38 rebounding tie, the Mustangs mauled the Jags on the offensive boards and kept the game a lot closer than it should have been.

Whit's work on the boards was instrumental, as this marked the fifth time in nine games she has been one of our top three rebounders. The negative to that is she is the point guard. Seeing this is when we can really appreciate the times she played down low on defense for the Winston-Salem Stealers. She has really learned the value in keeping someone else from the ball if you can't get it yourself.

Once again the Jags held their opponent to right at 30%(19-64), while shooting 39% (26-66) themselves. The Jags turned the ball over 24 times, but are now getting 55 shot attempts per game with their up tempo style, and giving themselves a chance to win each night. Naturally this type of style will lead to more turnovers, but it is clearly more effective.

Forestview has dodged disaster the last two games on the defensive boards. Two, much smaller teams have outworked us on the boards and made games much closer than they should be. Three games ago against North Lincoln, the Jags made a concerted effort to rebound defensively. That effort has not been there the last two contests, and will come back to haunt us against a good team. Many times the Jags have but three people going to the boards with two others trying to "leak" out.

The Jags don't play again until the First Charter Christmas Tournament, hosted by East Lincoln from December 28-30. Forestview will play Elkin High at 11:00 am on the 28th.

December 14, 2004

                              Lady Jags Open Conference Play With Win (video)

The Jags handled a tenacious Berry Academy defense and cruised to a 55-39 conference victory tonight. Forestview, as it has in every victory this season, managed at least 50 field goal attempts, shooting 39% (24-61). More importantly though, the Jags handled the Berry press with ease and got easy looks at the basket the entire game.

Whit had a solid all-around performance, especially on the defensive end. However, she played better than the numbers she has to show for it. Her biggest asset tonight was handling the press and giving her teammates shot opportunities. Berry was never able to get much established on offense, shooting only 27% (16-59). Much of this was caused by pressure applied on the Berry guards.

Whit finished with 8 points on 2-4 (2-2 from the arc) and 2-3 from the line. She added 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 3 blocks and 4 turnovers. She made 4 other passes for wide open layups that were not converted. The flow of the game was such that the Jags were breaking the press and attacking, so most of the shot attempts were coming from elsewhere. Whit has now hit 14 of her last 27 three point attempts, covering the last five games. She is now shooting 44% from the arc on the year (19-43).

Hayley Anderson led the Jags with 21 points and Jasmine Camp chipped in with 12 points and 3 assists. Anderson was able to score at will on the much smaller Berry team.

If there is a negative in a loss, it is the slim (34-30) rebounding edge the Jags finished with. This opponent was much smaller and the Jags should have dominated the boards. Clearly tonight's focus on rebounding was not there as it was in last Friday's victory.

The Jags, now 5-3, travel to East Lincoln Friday night.

December 10, 2004

                  Jags Use Fast First Half to Run Past North Lincoln (video)

Whitney scored 14 of her career high 24 in the first half, as the Jags scored 40 points before intermission, and defeated North Lincoln 67-53. Forestview is now 4-3 on the season and begins conference play next Tuesday at Berry Academy in Charlotte.

Whit hit four first half threes, including three in the second quarter, to help the Jags pull away to a 40-24 lead at halftime. The Knights wouldn't fold though, outscoring the Jags by 3 points in the final two quarters to keep the margin respectable.

Whit connected on 5-14 from the floor, hitting 4-9 from three point range. She was 10-12 from the free throw line, going 8-10 in the final four minutes. She added a season high 7 rebounds, with 1 assist, 4 steals and 3 turnovers. Whit has hit 12 of her last 25 three point attempts and is shooting 41% from the arc on the season.

Hayley Anderson added 9 points and 8 rebounds, but more importantly, was active on the defensive boards the entire evening. Her willingness to give the kind of rebounding effort she did was instrumental in securing this win.

Ashley Greeson added 12 points and Jasmine Camp handed out 7 assists.

Forestview shot 38% (20-53) from the floor and are now shooting 36% on the season. The Jags won the battle of the boards 34-17, but still turned the ball over 20 times. North Lincoln also shot 38% (18-47), but had 27 turnovers.

Through seven games this season, Jag opponents are shooting 30% from the floor compared to 35% at the same point last season. The Jags have allowed but one team above 40% the entire season. Clearly, this is an encouraging factor. We all know defense and rebounding are what win games. The Jags have also outrebounded opponents in 5 of 7 games.

December 8, 2004

                                 Jags Fall to Weddington 39-37

The Jags overcame a flat first quarter and played Weddington a close game throughout, but never could take the lead, and fell to the unbeaten Warriors 39-37. It was the only meeting between the two teams this season.

Forestview went 1-11 from the floor with 7 turnovers in the first quarter and trailed 9-2 after the first eight minutes. But the Jags hit 4 of 9 in the second quarter, getting a pair of threes from Whit and a three from Jasmine Camp, to only trail 18-15 at the intermission. Weddington was content to play a slowdown half court style to try and take advantage of their size, but they couldn't find the basket, shooting only 29% from the floor on the evening.

The Jags outscored the Warriors 13-10 in the third, as five Lady Jaguars found the scorebook in that period. With the score tied after three quarters and still anyone's game, the Jags had their chances. But they missed all five free throw attempts in the last quarter (2-9 on the night).

Whit had a good all around game, finishing with 10 points on 3-10, 2-6 from the arc and 2-4 from the line. Whit's two missed free throws in the third quarter seemed to be an omen going into the fourth, as she rarely misses two in a row. Whit added 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 4 turnovers. Jasmine Camp led all Jag scorers with 11 points.

Turnovers were a big nemesis early on, and the Jags finished with 26 on the night. Although most were unforced and not converted on the other end, they did represent missed scoring opportunities.

The Jags were 15-46 from the floor and were only outrebounded 29-25 , by the much bigger Warriors. The 3-3 Jags play host to North Lincoln on Friday night.

December 7, 2004

                                   Lady Jags Win Second Straight

The Jags used a somewhat balanced attack, and cruised to a 60-22 win over Bessemer City, to move to 3-2 on the season. Forestview took advantage of 29 Yellow Jacket turnovers while shooting 41% (23-56) from the field.

Whitney played less than two quarters, hitting 2-5 from the floor, including 2-2 from the arc, for six points. She added two assists, two steals and two turnovers. She also forced three other turnovers that were not steals.

Hayley Anderson led all scorers with 13 points and 4 turnovers. Freshman Jessica Capers, the team's leading rebounder, had 13 boards and 8 points, while Jasmine Camp chipped in with 10 points.

The Jags were able to play the reserves much of the game as they travel to Weddington on Wednesday night.

December 3, 2004

                                    Jags Get Back on Winning Track (video)

After leading only 24-13 to an overmatched Bessemer City team at halftime, the Lady Jags scored 45 second half points and cruised to a 69-18 win, to even their record at 2-2. The 69 points mark the second time in Whit's high school career the Jags have scored over 60 points.

The Jags pushed the ball up the floor more tonight, as evidenced by their 66 field goal attempts and 41% shooting. Bessemer City committed 39 turnovers to help the cause.

Whit had a good all around game, connecting on 6-15 from the floor, including 4-8 three pointers and 2-2 from the free throw line for 18 points. She added 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 5 steals and most importantly, no turnovers, in just 2 1/2 quarters.

Freshman Jessica Capers scored 12 points, with 5 rebounds and 4 steals, all in a 5 minute stretch of the fourth quarter. Capers is currently the team's third leading scorer and leading rebounder.

Ashley Greeson and Ryan Gallagher added four assists each, while Jasmine Camp handed out three. The Jags had 18 assists on 27 field goals.

The Jags 18 turnovers were their lowest of the year, but they are still averaging 24 per game. They play host to Bessemer City this coming Tuesday.

November 30, 2004

                                    Jags Give One Away to R-S Central

The lady Jags basically walked their way to their second straight defeat, as they lost to the Hilltoppers 42-36 in their home opener. Forestview managed but 42 field goal attempts, with eight of those coming in the final two minutes as desperation shots.

The Jags shot a dismal 21% from the floor, despite pounding the ball down low the entire evening. The last time they shot this poorly was in game four of last season. Turnovers once again were a major part of the demise, as the Jags had 28 turns to just 16 for R-S Central. Although RS only shot 26% from the field, they got up 61 shots, making 7 more field goals.

Whit had a poor shooting night, going 0-9 from the floor, although four of those misses came in the last :45 seconds. She finished with 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 5 turnovers. She never got into a rhythm though, taking only four shots through three quarters, as the Jags did not consider the outside game a part of their offense tonight.

Forestview led 30-26 with 4:14 to go in the third quarter, but managed only six points in the final twelve minutes. The Jags have now had four quarters in the last two games where they did not score in double figures. The team foul situation was 6-1 in favor of the Jags after three quarters, but they could not take advantage, shooting just 7 free throws in the final quarter.

In this area, the magic number appears to be 50 points. Forestview scored 50 or more points in 6 of their 9 wins last season. Had they scored 50 in every game, they would have won four more and tied two more. This year's team has managed 50 or more only once, an opening night win over North Lincoln. The Jags up tempo offense got up 58 shots that night, and shot 41%. The last two games, shot attempts have gone to 49 and 42, with field goal percentage going to 31% and 21%. This team will not beat good teams in a slow pace game.

Hayley Anderson was the only Jag in double figures with 16 points, while also committing 7 turnovers. The team's two leading rebounders, Caitlyn Clement and Jessica Capers, pulled down 11 and 7 rebounds respectively.

The 1-2 Jags travel to Bessemer City on Friday.

November 23, 2004

                                     Lifeless Jags Fall to R-S Central

After an inspired season opening win a night earlier, the Jags defense and rebounding took an early season vacation, as they fell to R-S Central 63-44 to fall to 1-1 on the season.

The smaller Hilltoppers outrebounded the Jags 56-27, giving them second chance baskets and trips to the free throw line the entire night. The lack of rebounding kept the Jags from getting into their running game which forced them into lower percentage shots throughout.

Whit had a solid game, but nothing spectacular, finishing with 11 points on 4-12 shooting, including 2-5 from three point range. She also had 3 boards, 2 assists and 3 steals, but also 5 turnovers. Whit also blocked another shot, her second in as many games.

Jasmine Camp added 11 points as the only other Jag in double figures. The team finished with 23 turnovers, again far too many to be successful night in and night out.

Forestview shot only 31% (15-49) compared to R-S Central's 46% (23-50). Although the toppers turned the ball over 20 times themselves, the Jags could convert only a handful into baskets.

After scoring at least 15 points in each quarter opening night, the Jags achieved that only once last night. With 50 points seemingly the "magic" number, the Jags were destined to come up short with this type of performance.

They play again next Tuesday, when they host R-S Central in their home opener.

November 22, 2004

                                       Lady Jags Open With Win (video)

The Jags used a balanced attack and opened their season on a high note with a 62-60 win over North Lincoln (3-1), to hand the Knights their first loss of the season.

Whit hit a free throw with :07 seconds remaining to put the Jags up by the final margin. North Lincoln managed a desperation shot at the buzzer which fell short. Whit added 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals, but more importantly, had only 3 turnovers while taking care of most of the ball handling duties.

Whit finished 4-11 from the floor, including 3-8 from the arc, and 1-2 from the free throw line. Despite finishing with only 5 assists, Whit found teammates open the entire game, but the Jags missed an abundance of layups. Most of this could be attributed to first game jitters though.

Freshman Jessica Capers finished with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals, on 8-13 shooting. Hayley Anderson added 17 points and 6 boards. Another freshman, Jasmine Camp, chipped in 7 points and 6 assists.

Forestview shot 41% from the floor (24-58) and 77% from the charity strip (10-13). They outrebounded the Knights 34-33. The Knights were hot in the first half, but tired in the second and finished at 35% on 23-65 shooting.

If there can be a negative on an opening night win, it was the turnovers. The Jags committed 24, most unforced. Again, opening night jitters accounts for some of these, but this number must come down.

The Jags turn right around and play Tuesday night at R-S Central in Rutherfordton.

November 4, 2004

School Schedule Released

Forestview High School has released their schedule for the upcoming 2004-05 season, which will be Whit's sophomore year. The Jags will play the same schedule as last season, except this year's endowment game will be at Weddington instead of at home. The complete schedule is now posted on the School ball link under BBall info on the menu bar.

Opening night is at North Lincoln on Monday, November 22nd.

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