House Resolution 79

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING THE LAUREL HIGH SCHOOL LADY GOLDEN TORNADOES BASKETBALL TEAM AND HEAD COACH SHERRI COOLEY FOR WINNING THEIR FIRST-EVER MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION CLASS 5A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP.

WHEREAS, in a season of firsts, the Laurel High School Lady Golden Tornadoes Basketball Team reached the ultimate milestone on March 5, 2021, after a whirlwind championship bout at the "Big House" against rival 5A opponents, Holmes County Central, whom they ousted in a hard fought 39-36 victory, to claim the program's first-ever state championship; and

WHEREAS, throughout the state tournament games, the Lady Golden Tornadoes played with clear eyes, full hearts and unimaginable amounts of strength, and in each game, their mental stamina and athletic prowess never wavered from the moment they first hustled onto the court until the final buzzer, as they outlasted, outplayed and ultimately overpowered each of their formidable opponents in their quest to the insurmountable glory of the state championship title; and

WHEREAS, in the fourth quarter, Laurel jumped out to a 37-30 lead before the Lady Jaguars contentiously stormed back to make it a one-point game with less than a minute to play, but failed to capitalize on an opportunity to secure its first lead of the game at the free-throw line, which allowed Laurel senior, Zoey Cooley, to give the Lady Golden Tornadoes a 39-36 cushion with 5.4 seconds remaining, after sinking two free throws; and

WHEREAS, to claim this illustrious victory, the Lady Golden Tornadoes relied on their swift feet, accurate shooting and strategic defensive moves to stop the opposing offense and outmaneuver their defense, led by senior Mackenzie Thomas with nine points, who also earned the game's "Most Valuable Player" Award, and complimented by teammate and fellow Jones Junior College signee Zoey Cooley's eight points, which ultimately allowed them to bring the coveted Gold Ball trophy back home; and

WHEREAS, the 2020-2021 Lady Golden Tornadoes Basketball Team roster is comprised of very talented and distinguished young women, including: Savannah Gant, Kennidi Dean, Manaca Keyes, Mackenzie Thomas, Marissa Ulmer, Takiyah Thames, Zoey Cooley, Morgan Evans, Genesis Jackson, Alexus Lindsey, Kassidy Ulmer, Erialle Gant and Takiyah Wright; and team manager, Ke'ara Cooley; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Golden Tornadoes have been superbly coached and inspired by Head Coach Sherri Cooley, and Assistant Coaches Kristie McKinley, Nicole Barnes, Shasta Husband and Randy Pettis, who have broadened the players' knowledge of the game and refined their skills in execution; and

WHEREAS, Coach Cooley and the entire coaching staff have laid the foundation upon which a legacy of superior play and true sportsmanship forged by the tenacious and undaunted spirit of each team member can be built, as evidenced by the school's ability to produce high caliber players and plays and by the team's successful season; and

WHEREAS, the Lady Golden Tornadoes will carry the unforgettable memories they made along their way to championship status throughout their lives as they are constantly flooded with the feeling of greatness that accompanies being a champion; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend excellence, especially that displayed by the Laurel High School Lady Golden Tornadoes Basketball Team, an elite group of student-athletes, who have brought honor to their school, their community and to the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the Laurel High School Lady Golden Tornadoes Basketball Team, Head Coach Sherri Cooley and Assistant Coaches Kristie McKinley, Nicole Barnes, Shasta Husband and Randy Pettis for winning their first-ever MHSAA Class 5A State Championship, and extend to the team, coaches, parents and sponsors best wishes for future success.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Head Coach Sherri Cooley, Laurel High School Principal Dr. Mark Guidry and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.