Cherokee Lady Braves Clinch Back-to-Back State Titles with Dominant Win

Cherokee, NC – The Cherokee Lady Braves capped off an incredible season by securing their second consecutive North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) 1A girls’ basketball state championship, defeating the East Bladen Eagles in an 84-48 rout. The championship game, held on March 14, 2025, at Lawrence Joel Memorial Coliseum in Winston-Salem, saw the Lady Braves show their strength in the second half after a tightly contested first half.

A Stellar Performance from Whitney Rogers

Senior guard Whitney Rogers played a key role in the Lady Braves’ victory, finishing with 33 points. Despite a recent knee injury that had kept her uncertain for the game, Rogers stepped up and delivered a masterful performance, particularly in the first half, where she scored 21 of her total points. Rogers’ leadership and scoring ability were essential to Cherokee’s success and helped her team build momentum heading into the second half.

Dvdaya Swimmer’s All-Around Impact

Junior guard Dvdaya Swimmer also made her mark on the game, contributing 15 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists. Her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor was crucial for Cherokee. Swimmer’s all-around play earned her the West Regional MVP award and demonstrated her importance to the team throughout the postseason.

The Game’s Turning Point

The first half of the game was tightly contested, with Cherokee holding a narrow 35-31 lead at halftime. East Bladen kept the game close by executing quick, strategic passes to break Cherokee’s press defense and convert on fast breaks. However, the Lady Braves made necessary adjustments in the second half. They limited East Bladen’s fast-break opportunities and tightened up their defense.

Cherokee’s dominant second-half performance was highlighted by a 41-8 run, which effectively sealed the game and left the Eagles struggling to keep up. By the final buzzer, Cherokee had expanded their lead, securing a 36-point victory and their second consecutive state title.

East Bladen’s Effort Falls Short

East Bladen’s standout player, Laila Smith, led the Eagles with 22 points, and her effort earned her the East Regional MVP title. However, despite a strong start and Smith’s individual brilliance, the Eagles couldn’t match the Lady Braves’ intensity in the second half.

Coach Miranda Stamper Reflects on the Victory

Cherokee’s head coach, Miranda Stamper, in her first season leading the team, praised her players for their resilience. “They just jumped all over us in the second half,” said Stamper. “They’re a very good team. They just grind. I mean they get after it.” Her comments reflected her admiration for East Bladen’s efforts but also highlighted the Lady Braves’ ability to take control when it mattered most.

A Historic Victory for Cherokee

This championship marks the Cherokee Lady Braves’ third state title in the past four seasons, solidifying their place as one of the top programs in North Carolina high school basketball. Their victory is a testament to the hard work, skill, and determination that has defined this team for the last several years.

With this impressive win, the Lady Braves have proven once again that they are a force to be reckoned with in the state’s basketball scene, and their remarkable journey continues to inspire the Cherokee community.