The Swainsboro Lady Tigers split a weekend slate of games last week, opening with a tough region battle against Vidalia before bouncing back with a dominant non-region win over Jefferson County.
On Friday night, December 12, Swainsboro hosted region rival Vidalia inside The Den in a highly anticipated matchup. Vidalia entered the contest as the defending region champions, while the Lady Tigers were looking to make a statement on their home floor.
The game lived up to the hype, as both teams traded baskets and momentum throughout the night. Kimya Freeman, KK Murphy, and Mckinley Walden played key roles as Swainsboro matched Vidalia’s physicality and intensity, keeping the game within reach from start to finish.
The contest remained close into the fourth quarter, but Vidalia was able to pull away late, capitalizing on key possessions to secure a 46–42 win.
Head coach Alexandria Walden said missed opportunities proved costly but emphasized the value of the experience.
“We had chances at the free-throw line and some open layups that we didn’t convert,” Walden said. “Against a team like Vidalia, those moments matter. We’ll take this game, learn from it, and move forward. The good thing is we’ll get another opportunity to see them later in the season.”
Less than 24 hours later, the Lady Tigers responded the right way.
On Saturday, December 13, Jefferson County traveled to Swainsboro for a non-region matchup, and the Lady Tigers delivered a strong performance, earning a 73–21 victory in front of the home crowd. Swainsboro came out focused and efficient, showing immediate improvement in the areas that hurt them the night before.
The Lady Tigers were more consistent at the free-throw line, finished around the basket, and created quality scoring opportunities throughout the game. Senior LA Freeman provided a spark from the perimeter, knocking down three shots from behind the arc as Swainsboro built an early lead and never looked back.
“We did a much better job finishing plays,” Walden said. “We improved at the free-throw line, finished layups, and took better shots overall. That was a big emphasis after Friday night, and the girls responded.”
With the split, the Lady Tigers continue to build momentum as the season moves forward. Swainsboro faced another region opponent, St. Vincent, this past Tuesday in another important matchup. Highlights and coverage from that game will be featured in next week’s article.
