Lakeland - The Boca Ciega Lady Pirates jumped out to an early 9-0 lead against the Dillard Lady Panthers in the 5A title game causing the Panthers to call a time-out.  After the time-out the Panthers woke up led by senior Dawn Maye as they defeated the Lady Pirates 53-44   to win the 5A state championship.

“Maye did what she has been doing all season long for us.  Her leadership and will to win led us to victory today.”  Dillard coach Marcia Pinder said.

Maye indeed was spectacular tonight, willing her team to a championship.  Maye went on a personal 11-0 run to end the first quarter putting the Panthers up 14-12 to end the opening quarter.

Boca Ciega kept the game close throughout behind the play of their two superstars Tamara Taylor who finished with 21 points and Latavia Dempsey who finished with 10 points.

At the end of the day, the Pirates just didn’t have an answer for Maye.  Maye finished the game with game high 25 points six rebounds and three assists.

This marks Dillard’s fifth championship under coach Marcia Pinder in her 30^th year at the school.  With all the talented players she has had, she states Maye is right up there with the best of them.

“Next year when we get started, I will look around and see if they are hungry for it.  We won’t have Maye and those are some awfully big shoes to fill.”  Pinder said.