Lady Knights Roll to 13th Win on Pink it Out Night, Conference Title Stakes Rising

BLADENBORO, NC — The Lady Knights of West Bladen kept their playoff push rolling in emphatic fashion Thursday night, sweeping Red Springs in straight sets on Pink It Out Night.

The gym was filled with pink uniforms and energy as West Bladen controlled every phase of the match in a 25-9, 25-6, 25-10 victory.

The win lifts West Bladen to 13-2 overall and 7-1 in 3A/4A/5A Southeastern Conference play, moving them up to No. 22 in the 3A RPI rankings.

With the postseason picture sharpening, the Knights are eyeing a critical stretch.

They’ll travel Tuesday to face South Columbus (10-10), a team they’ve already handled 3-1 earlier this season.

If West Bladen takes care of business there, and South Brunswick defeats Fairmont, it would set up a massive home clash next Thursday with South Brunswick for a share of the conference title.

On Thursday night, though, it was all about sharp execution and balanced play.

Makenna Thurman tallied three aces, seven kills, and an assist to pace the attack, while Tahlela Bethea added five kills, a block, and a dig.

Karlee Gause chipped in with five kills, and Kali Allen kept the service pressure high with four aces and a kill.

Kimberly Dowless added three kills and a tip kill, while Jaylyn Clark registered four kills and a dig.

Greer Pope set the tone at setter with one ace, one kill, two tip kills, and an impressive 20 assists.

Shanna Lewis played steady defense with five digs, two assists, and two aces, and Brenna Hester contributed valuable play in the back row to round out the team effort.

Head Coach Jessica Rhodes praised her group for more than just the scoreboard.

“We had a few players unavailable tonight due to illness, injury, or other commitments, but the team continues to demonstrate exceptional resilience and support for one another. Their willingness to step up, adapt, and cover various positions as needed during unforeseen circumstances over the past couple of weeks is a true reflection of their commitment to the team’s overall success, passion for the sport, and strong sense of camaraderie…. they do it with a smile and have fun!”

With the Knights surging at the right time, the stage is set for one of the program’s biggest regular-season matches in years when South Brunswick comes to Bladenboro next week.

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Lady Knights Roll to 13th Win on Pink it Out Night, Conference Title Stakes Rising