Mark Everett Kelly Mark@southerntorch.com

Fort Payne’s basketball teams celebrated their seniors on Thursday night, as the boys and girls both won against Westminster Christian.

Girls

Sophomore Zimri Craig stole the show on a night when her sister Zoie was one of the five seniors recognized. One of the “Sisters, Craig” (junior Zaria plays on the team), Zimri, displayed her entire basketball repertoire as the Lady Wildcats defeated Westminster Christain, 59-30.

The game turned during the final minute of the first quarter when the sophomore helped create three turnovers (the Lady Wildcats forced seven in the opening quarter) that turned a 12-12 tie into a 16-12 lead. 

Craig showcased her impressive basketball skills, including a left-handed scoop over-under, numerous successful drives to the hoop, and three baskets from downtown (three-pointers).

On defense Fort Payne continued to suffocate their opponents, holding the visitors to 30 points on 35 percent shooting from the field (13-37). Their defensive effort represented the 16th time they have held opponents 35 points or fewer.

For the seniors, Libby Redden scored 11 points in an impressive effort, Amiaya O’Neal 5, Avery Chadwick 3, Anna Kate Akins 1 and Zoie Craig did not score.

“A great group of seniors who have spent a lot of hours in the gym. They enjoy the team concept they’re good friends both on and off the floor. All of the players play more than one sport and it’s been an enjoyment to coach them throughout rec league, middle school and high school,” Fort Payne Head Coach Steve Sparks said,

Boys

Robi Coker’s group continued to inspire those in attendence with their 46-32 victory of the “other” Wildcats of Westminster Christian.

Playing without senior Josh Scott for most of the season with a wrist injury, fellow seniors Jackson Banks, Levi Crow and Fisher Abbott have  showcased the leadership vacancy Moore’s injury created.

J.J. Willoughby led all scorers with 17 points, while Banks (9 points) and Crow (8) added to the mix. 

“These seniors have done a tremendous job being leaders for our program. A very high character group that has a high work capacity.

“I’m very thankful for the men they are and how they have responded to adversity.” Coker said.