A senate RESOLUTION

 

TO RECOGNIZE and honor THE LANDRUM HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM, COACHES, AND SCHOOL OFFICIALS for a stellar season and to congratulate them on WINNING THE 2026 SOUTH CAROLINA CLASS AA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE.

 

Whereas, the South Carolina Senate is pleased to hear that the members of the Landrum High School girls basketball team of Spartanburg County won the state title at the final game held at the Colonial Life arena in Columbia on Thursday, March 5, 2026; and

 

Whereas, the Landrum Lady Cardinals defeated an aggressive Atlantic Collegiate Academy in an exciting 45-43 victory, much to the delight of their faithful fans, to win the program's first state championship and end the season with a 20-7 record; and

 

Whereas, in the Battle of the Border against local nemesis and much larger class AAAAA Spartanburg High School, the Lady Cardinals took a 69-61 victory earlier in the season. They also took another and much easier win 66-47 over Andrew Jackson High School for the Upper State championship against this team which had two previous Class AA state championships. That win gave Landrum a bid for the state championship game; and

 

Whereas, the Lady Cardinals, having appeared twice in the last three years, entered the state championship game this year with confidence and a wealth of experience. At halftime Landrum was leading, 33-22 with a three-pointer from Kylie Fortner that ended the second quarter. Atlantic was able to put on the pressure in the third quarter, and the Lady Cavaliers cut Landrum's lead to 39-36 going into the fourth quarter; and

 

Whereas, with half a minute left to play, Landrum was ahead 45-40 with a free throw from sophomore Delaney Caldwell. A three-point play from the Lady Cavaliers reduced the lead to 45-43 with 27 seconds remaining, but Atlantic could not add anymore to the scoreboard; and

 

Whereas, Landrum's Delaney Caldwell led her team with 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists.  Teammate Kylie Fortner added 10 points in the state championship, and earlier in the season, she became the all-time leading scorer for the Lady Cavaliers. Emalynn Bright added 7 points, Hazel Cain 3,  Avery Caldwell 3, Leena Schembra 2, and Sullivan Price 1. Every point in the game was critical to secure the state championship title for Landrum; and

 

Whereas, Head Coach Kali Koenig and her dedicated coaching staff capitalized on their own athletic experience and passion in a sport that demands measured strength and teamwork to build a championship team, teaching these athletes life principles that will endure beyond the court; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina Senate values what the Landrum basketball players have provided in the championship victory for their school and their community, and the members will enjoy seeing the team's future achievements. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate:

 

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and honor the Landrum High School girls basketball team, coaches, and school officials for a stellar season and congratulate them on winning the 2026 South Carolina Class AA State Championship title.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. J. Kegan Flynn, principal, and to Coach Kali Koenig.

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