Usual suspects prevail in girls basketball

I wrote in the girls basketball season preview last November that some new teams could emerge as playoff contenders this year.

A few new contenders did emerge, but for the most part the usual suspects prevailed

Southwood won its 12th District 1-5A title in the last 13 years and reached 30 wins for the 15th season in a row. Byrd, which has struggled recently and was 14-17 last season, improved, though. The Lady Jackets are 19-11 and contenders for a playoff spot.

Southwood, last season's state runner-up, should make a run at its 10th state title.

Parkway won its fourth straight District 1-4A title despite losing four starters off last season's team. Haughton, which was 11-18 last year, had a breakthrough year. After Friday's loss to Bossier, the Lady Bucs (24-8) are tied with the Lady Kats for second place in the district.

Evangel moved up to District 1-2A and had little trouble winning the title after representing District 1-1A as the third-place team in the playoffs last season. Vashni Sharp followed up her fine 2006-07 season with another great season.

Plain Dealing, a perennial power in District 1-1A, has clinched a share of yet another title. Arcadia, the Class 1A state runner-up last season, is also having another successful season.