The South Bryan County Recreation Department 14U girls basketball team protected its community home court and its crown.
South Bryan County edged South Fulton County 37–31 on March 7 at Richmond Hill High School, clinching the Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) State 14-and-under championship and finishing the tournament undefeated at 4–0.
The program has now earned back-to-back state championships, following last season's 12U state title with this year's 14U victory.
Championship Recap
South Bryan County entered the tournament as the host team and delivered a strong performance from start to finish.
The early tournament rounds took place on Friday, March 6, at Devaul Henderson Gym, followed by the final rounds on Saturday, March 7, at Richmond Hill High School’s gym.
In the championship game, South Bryan County faced a talented South Fulton team from the Atlanta area, one that featured size and athleticism, according to Bryan County 14U co-coach Alex Tucker.
But South Bryan County’s defensive discipline and teamwork proved to be the difference.
“We pride ourselves on defense, being in the right position, helping each other, and filling gaps,” Tucker said. “We’re not the fastest team, but as a group we can shut down the interior game.”
South Bryan County went undefeated with four wins in the state tournament.
South Bryan County 14U girls basketball team poses after winning the GRPA state championship. Back row, from left: Co-Coach Alex Tucker, Lila Garren, Brooklyn Dunlevy, Georgia Tucker, Simone Pierre and Molly Miller. Front row, from left: Avoluwa “Ayo” Akerele, Stella Seagraves, Ansley Sommers, Makenzie Loth and Quinn Lock. Not pictured: Co-Coach Cory Sommers. (Courtesy of South Bryan County Basketball)
Built Over Years
The championship didn’t happen overnight.
Co-coaches Alex Tucker and Cory Sommers have been guiding many of the players since they were in elementary school.
Tucker noted that coaching this group began when the players were about seven or eight years old in the recreation league. Although much learning and growth occurred, the group's potential was evident from the outset.
As the girls developed, Tucker and Sommers decided to keep the group together outside the rec season to build chemistry and experience.
According to Tucker, the team began traveling in the offseason and playing tournaments. Though they encountered challenges at first, the resulting growth and team chemistry were substantial.
Sommers said that chemistry has been the key to the team’s success over time.
“The same core group has been together for about four years now,” Sommers said. “They play together in rec, travel ball and middle school. They know each other, they feed off each other, and there’s no selfish play. Everybody plays their role.”
That commitment paid off when the team captured the GRPA 12U state championship last season, then returned this year to defend the title at the 14U level.
South Bryan County 2025 12U girls basketball team poses after winning the GRPA state championship. Back row, from left: co-coach Alex Tucker and co-coach Cory Sommers. (Courtesy of South Bryan County Basketball)
Winning at Home
Hosting the state tournament made the victory even more meaningful.
“It was huge for these girls to play in that high school gym,” Tucker said. “A lot of them will be out there next year, and to do it in front of family, teachers and coaches made it really special.”
Playing close to home also meant strong community support in the stands.
Tucker emphasized that the tournament put Bryan County girls' basketball on the map, boosting recognition from other teams.
A Team Built on Trust
Tucker said the team’s greatest strength is the trust the players have built after years of playing together.
Tucker pointed out that the players trust one another. Early in their development, close games were often lost, but now, when situations become tense, the athletes remain calm and confident in each other.
Sommers added that the team’s balance shows up in how they share the ball.
“You don’t see one player with 20 points every game,” Sommers said. “You’ll see everybody contribute. It might be two to eight points each, but they share the ball and play unselfish basketball.”
He also credited the families who have supported the team’s development.
Tucker recognized the families' commitment, both during and outside of the season, noting that the parents play a vital role by transporting the team to tournaments in multiple cities, aiding their development.
Looking Ahead
With many of the players preparing to enter high school soon, the success of this group could help strengthen the future of Richmond Hill girls' basketball.
Tucker believes the chemistry and experience they have developed will carry forward.
Tucker shared that this group is expected to be exciting to watch, as they have built something unique together and are positioned to gain even more attention in the coming years.
For Tucker, Sommers, and the South Bryan County players, the championship represents more than just a trophy. It reflects years of commitment, teamwork, and belief in each other. With this group heading toward the high school level, one thing is clear — the future of Bryan County girls' basketball is in good hands, and this group of young players is just getting started.
And if the past two seasons are any indication, don’t be surprised if this Bryan County group keeps raising banners for years to come.
GRPA 14U GIRLS State Championship Roster
South Bryan County 14U Girls Basketball Team
Ansley Sommers, No. 2; Lila Garren, No. 4; Quinn Lock, No. 5; Makenzie Loth, No. 10; Simone Pierre, No. 11; Avoluwa Akerele, No. 12; Georgia Tucker, No. 13; Stella Seagraves, No. 21; Brooklyn Dunlevy, No. 22; Molly Miller, No. 23.
Co-coaches: Alex Tucker and Cory Sommers.
Photo (s) Credit: Courtesy of the South Bryan County Basketball team
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