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D'Ville sophomore Samari Holmen celebrates alongside the recently graduated Mariah Clayton and Chloe Mann at the 2024 UIL-6A State Championship (3/2/2024)
TITLE TOWN: Duncanville GBB as deadly as ever, aiming for State repeat
That brief history lesson aside, they have every intention of going back-to-back at the Alamodome this March.
Under second-year head coach Neiman Ford, the Pantherettes began the season strong, winning their first two games against top-tier teams—Summer Creek (59-44) and Cypress Springs (64-57).
While they faced a few setbacks later in the season, they’ve turned a corner in the new year, winning seven consecutive games.
After a crucial 40-36 victory over district rival Cedar Hill on Tuesday, Duncanville improved to 20-5 overall and 7-0 in district play, climbing to No. 3 in the DFW rankings and No. 5 in Texas (MaxPreps).
Though they lost 2024 UIL-6A State MVP Mariah Clayton to Old Dominion, and Chloe Mann to Cincinnati, the team's production hasn’t faltered.
After putting up some respectable numbers in her debut a year ago, shooting guard Samari Holmen has truly flourished in her sophomore campaign. She currently leads the squad in every major statistical category, providing an approximate 17 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals per contest.
Experience is critical for postseason longevity, and the Pantherettes boast a seasoned starting lineup.
Senior forward Jasmine “Jazzy” Gipson, a University of Arizona signee, continues to shine with 12 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals per game.
Jasmine "Jazzy" Gipson (seen clapping) takes in the moment of winning the 2024 State Title with Clayton (#1) and Holmen (#13)Matthew Ogle (VYPE)
Another standout, senior UNLV signee Trystan James (11 ppg, 5 rpg, 2 spg), recently earned a nomination for the McDonald’s All American Games, as did Gipson.
Additional contributions come from seniors Londyn Harper and Kierston Russell, along with sophomore Aja Smith, rounding out a balanced and formidable squad.
Only a handful of matches remain in the regular season, and the Pantherettes are on track to capture their third consecutive district title (sharing it with DeSoto in 2024).
Subsequently, with the new upcoming UIL playoff structure, which reduces the number of victories needed to claim the state title by one, Duncanville has an even greater chance to add a 13th championship to their storied history.