Reunited transfers with second chance at state title help Bearden girls basketball win first championship

MURFREESBORO — When Jennifer Sullivan and Bailey Burgess hoisted the gold ball with their Bearden teammates they felt relief.

Two years ago they were part of the King's Academy team that lost in the Division II-A state championship.

On Saturday they were part of Bearden's first state title in a 52-34 win over Farragut (28-9) in the Class 4A state championship game at Middle Tennessee State's Murphy Center.

"I was so emotional after the game because walking through the tunnel just now versus sophomore year was a completely different feeling," Sullivan said. "It just feels like the pinnacle. We're all going to college and we'll be able to continue our careers, so there's more to come, but right now it just feels like we're on top of the world."

Sullivan had seven points and four rebounds in the championship. The Miss Basketball finalist led Bearden (36-3) with 17 points in both the quarterfinal and semifinal games.

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Burgess was tied for the team's leading scorer with 15 points and sank four 3-pointers on Saturday. 

Sullivan transferred to Bearden after her sophomore season while Burgess remained for another year at King's Academy before transferring. Reuniting with her longtime teammate and friend this season made the championship win even sweeter for Burgess.

"Our sophomore year, that was the worst feeling, and to finish this ride with Jenn, it just means everything," Burgess said. "It's just such an amazing feeling, I can't even describe it. It's all worth it because of this moment right here."

Sullivan spent more minutes than usual on the bench in the championship after getting three fouls early in the third quarter. However, she said she never questioned that Bearden would win, whether she was on the court or not.

"The second I came out of the game, I had no doubt in my mind ... I know like these guys are able to carry with or without me," she said. "Obviously I wanted to be contributing but I also love being on the bench and getting everybody hype. I love that aspect of the game too."

Contact Emily Adams at eaadams@gannett.com or on Twitter @eaadams6.