USJ girls try for state semifinal berth

For the first time since joining Division II-A, the University School of Jackson girls basketball team has a chance to play a sub-state game at home.

The Lady Bruins have had to go on the road before for sub-state. But on Friday, they have a chance to earn a first-ever berth into the Division II-A semifinals.

USJ hosts Franklin Road Academy at 6 p.m.

"We gave them Monday off after those two trips to Mississippi," USJ coach Tony Shutes said. "I think those two nights wore us out, so we let them get away from basketball on Monday, and we had two good practices on Tuesday and Wednesday."

This year's senior class has been working toward getting to the goal of earning a home sub-state game.

"All through the summer I got a different vibe," Shutes said. "The younger players and seniors improved so that they could have the opportunity. The seniors have worked hard, and they have matured."

Anna Jones has played in many big games, and this will be an opportunity to help her team make history.

"I think she is ready," Shutes said. "I didn't realize until today that this was her last home game, but I don't think she is thinking about that. We have been looking at this one game at a time."

Shutes said that Franklin Road Academy is a traditional powerhouse.

"They are in this spot every year," he said. "The program has two state titles, and they compete hard. They are well-coached by Chris Hart, who spent time at Bradford and Gibson County with David Russell.

"We have to play our game. They have a point guard in Riley Casey that we will have to pay attention to. But we have to be who we have been all year."

So who has USJ been all year?

"The key as always is defense," Shutes said. "Defense has been our stamp all year long. We had great defense against Harding, and after Northpoint scored 20 on us in the first quarter, we held them to 49 in the game."

Reach Michael Odom at michodom@jacksonsun.com or 731-425-9754. Follow him on Twitter @JSWriterMichael.