By Kana Roarty and Helena Savage

The Princess Anne girls’ basketball team has done it again, winning its record-setting fifth consecutive state championship, defeating Thomas Edison High, 61-45, March 8. The team finished the season with a 26-1 record. It was the program’s ninth state title.

Despite the elation for this unprecedented feat, for senior captain Xaria Wiggins, it was a bittersweet experience. “I’m definitely going to miss my teammates because they’re like my sisters,” said Wiggins, who has committed to play basketball next year at Mississippi State.

After four years on the team with head coach Darnell Dozier, Wiggins expressed the close bond that she has created with him, even comparing him to something like a “second dad.”

Although Wiggins injured her ankle at the semi-finals two days before the championship game which led to her limited playing time, the Lady Cavs were never really challenged by the Eagles.

Senior Makayla Dickens and junior Brianna Jackson provided the team with the performances and leadership to lead to the victory, and sophomore Jasha Clinton who led the team in scoring this year, did so in the title game, dropping in 17 points.

Jackson, who scored 12 points and had 15 rebounds and dominates on defense with her 6-3 stature, will be one to watch next season as she plans to “lead the team to another (state) ring.” Many fans compare her to 2011 graduate Elizabeth Williams, who now plays with the WNBA for the Atlanta Dream, due to their similarities in size and exceptional defensive skills on the court.

The Lady Cavs are ranked 10th nationally by MaxPreps and show no signs of slowing down, especially with skillful newcomers such as freshman Aziaha James. “It is a great experience this young, playing in the game with seniors and juniors,” said James.“Winning the championship is the best thing.”