By REED DESALVO

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Ferriday High School outscored Ouachita Christian by 21 points in the second half en route to cruising to a 54-32 Friday night.

The Lady Trojans (10-15, 5-5) outscored the Lady Eagles 17-4 in the third period to turn what was a one-point game at the half into a one-sided contest.

“We had to change our defense at the last minute to a box-and-1,” Ferriday coach Lisa Abron said. “We realized (one of Ouachita’s players) wasn’t going to be here (Friday). And to say we didn’t work on (the defense) prior to the game, it turned out pretty well. It worked out in our favor.”

Ferriday honored its lone senior, LaKeshanna Harris, following the game. Harris finished with eight points, including a pair of 3-pointers.

“Being the only senior, that’s a lot of responsibility,” Abron said of her point guard. “She stepped up like asked her to do, most of the time. (Friday) we wanted to let her have most of the spotlight. She played an exceptional game for us.”

The experienced also chipped in with four assists, two rebounds and two steals.

“This is cool,” Harris. “It felt good to win on senior night; it feels real good. I’m always going to remember playing with my teammates and playing under (Abron).”

With the regular season now in the books, Ferriday will turn its sights to next season. And if Friday night is any indication, the Lady Trojans are in good hands with post players Shaniqua Hilliard and Zhane Green. The inside duo combined to score 25 points, grab 16 rebounds, tally five steals and record two blocks.

“We’re going to be in the weight room, going to camps and doing a whole bunch of things with the big girls that I have now,” Abron said. “I’m expecting some to come from the middle school program that’s going to give us a lot of help as well.”

Ferriday led at the half 21-20.

Anasia Turner led the Lady Trojans with 14 points.