NASHVILLE - Top-ranked GPS rallied from a 15-point first-half deficit to defeat Briarcrest Christian 55-50 for the Division II-AA girls' state basketball championship today. It is the Bruisers' first title since 2000.
After scoring 20 first-half points to put Briarcrest in control, 6-foot-1 post Lauren Douglas was held to one point in the second half, sitting out much of the action with four fouls.
Tournament MVP Simone Busby's two free throws with 2:21 remaining in the game gave GPS its first lead since the opening minutes of the game. Busby finished with 17 points, four rebounds and two assists.
Chadarryl Clay had 12 points, six rebounds, five steals and four assists for GPS and was named the Division II-AA Miss Basketball award winner. She is the Bruisers' first Miss Basketball since Alana Smith in 2000.
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293.