THE PERENNIAL POWER: Lincoln maintaining degree of traditional excellence in 2024
When it comes to Texas high school girls hoops, there are few teams more consistent than Lincoln.
Similar to Duncanville in UIL-6A (4 championships since 2015), the Tigers are always in the conversation within Class 4A, evidenced by their 16 state tournament appearances over the past 34 seasons -- claiming three titles over that span.
That trend continues to this day, and then some, as Coach Ashley Greer and company have enjoyed a perfect 23-0 start to the winter, while they currently compete in the Sandra Meadows Classic.
The 2023 District 13-4A MVP, Ar'Jayla Elder (Jr. G), headlines the high-octane Lincoln offense, averaging just over 14 points per game.
Naturally, this has paid dividends for a group that now seeks to dominate 11-4A, following the UIL realignment this past off-season.
Of course, she's not alone.
Fellow returning starter T'Anna Saddler contributes roughly 9 points and 3 assists per contest, while adding a significant rebounding and defensive presence with her 6-foot-1 frame.
Meanwhile, newcomer Lanae Dallas has wasted no time in establishing herself within the team's ranks, as the freshman is averaging over 11 points an outing.
If that isn't enough to hurt the opposition, sophomore Jada Patterson (8 ppg), as well as seniors Grace Spencer (9 ppg, 2 rpg) and Sy'Niyah Gulley (5 ppg, 1 rpg) are more than capable of making a difference.
Lincoln reached the State Semis a year ago, where they fell 65-60 in a double-overtime heart-breaker against eventual champion Waco La Vega.
Suffice it to say, the No. 2 team in our updated rankings would love to return the favor down the line
As is the case every season, the Tigers will have their sights set on reaching the Alamodome. If all goes according to plan, they'll secure the program's first state crown since 2008.
