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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.
THE NEW STANDARD: Guyer GBB Makes Their Case as Legit Title Contenders
One of the most captivating turnarounds this winter has come courtesy of the Denton Guyer girls basketball program.
After years of fluctuating performance—most recently finishing 10-20 last season—the Wildcats have experienced a remarkable rise in 2024.
Under the tutelage of head coach Jake Floyd, Denton Guyer is currently sitting pretty with a 20-2 record, following a dominant win over McKinney North in the Dallas ISD Holiday Invitational on Friday evening.
Ranked No. 3 in Dallas via our updated rankings, the Wildcats have quickly established themselves as one of the most elite competitors in the state. Their performance this year is a reflection of the growing depth and talent within the program.
At the core of Guyer's impressive season is senior point guard Amaya Langford, the team's undisputed leader.
Langford's experience has been invaluable, but it's her exceptional ability to distribute the ball and control the tempo that sets her apart. Earlier this month, she reached the 200-assist milestone in her career, further proving her court vision and unselfish play.
Adding to the Wildcats' strength is sophomore Baylee Bowman, a first-team all-district selection, who excels both beyond the arc and on defense.
Bowman’s shooting ability and versatility make her a significant asset, and given her age, she’s only expected to improve as the season progresses. Alongside Langford, the two form a dynamic duo that is tough to match.
However, what truly makes Denton Guyer stand out is its impressive depth.
If Langford and Bowman aren’t leading the charge, individuals such as fellow first-teamer Peyton Underwood (So. G), Destanie Green (Fr. G), and junior Madison McGhie are ready to step up at a moment's notice.
As the Wildcats head into the second half of the season, tougher challenges await.
Competing in one of the most competitive districts in Texas (5-6A), Guyer will face teams like Braswell and Flower Mound, both of whom are well-renowned opponents.
Flower Mound handed Guyer a tough 64-56 loss in their first meeting, but the Wildcats are hungry for redemption and looking to settle the score.
The immediate goal is to end their three-year playoff drought, but with the talent this team has shown, the Wildcats are setting their sights higher.
For the first time in years, this squad seems primed to make a deep playoff run and possibly break through past the second round—something the program has struggled to achieve in the past decade.
For now, Guyer’s focus is on securing a district title, something they haven’t won since the 2020-21 season.
As the season continues, expect the Wildcats to keep impressing fans and opponents alike—they’re proving they’re a force to be reckoned with.
Stay tuned.