New Albany Bulldogs

The setting is the 2010 4A State Championship, where New Albany, the state’s top team and undefeated North Half Champion, falls to Raymond; the team’s only loss of the season. From that moment on, there was only one goal on the minds of the Lady Bulldogs, particularly the eight girls who would be seniors: to make it back to Jackson and finish the job.

It is the last go-around for New Albany and eight seniors, and they are taking nothing for granted.

New Albany may have not been given much of a chance going into their semifinal match-up against St. Stanislaus, but the Bulldogs made the most of their opportunity before falling in the final minutes of their 73-66 game Monday night.

The Bulldogs led for a majority of the first half despite the Rock-a-Chaws using their inside force, led by Johnny Zuppardo with 11 first quarter points.

Brad Gray has seen his team respond well after losses, and as the Bulldogs prepare for the 4A State Semifinals, he hopes to see that same attitude when they play St. Stanislaus on Monday.
“It was tough losing in North Half, but despite that, we’re still playing, he said.
“That’s what we’re trying to get across to our kids. You don’t want to lose, but we still have a shot. We’re still alive, and usually they come back the first game after a loss with a chip on their shoulder, so I think we’ll be okay.”