The 2024-25 season was one of grit, growth, and resilience for Mount Tabor High School's women's basketball team, led by Head Coach Richmond Lyons. Despite a challenging start and a final overall record of 9-16, the Spartans showcased determination and development throughout the season, culminating in a postseason appearance as the 4A state tournament’s No. 32 seed.
Shaymiah Bailey: The Backbone of the Team
Senior post player and returning CPC Player of the Year, #23 Shaymiah Bailey, once again proved her dominance. Leading the team in nearly every statistical category—points, rebounds, assists, and blocks—Bailey anchored the Spartans on both ends of the floor. Her efforts were recognized with the CPC Defensive Player of the Year award and the team's MVP honors. As the team’s vocal and emotional leader, her presence was irreplaceable.
Growth Through Adversity
Though the win column didn’t always reflect it, Coach Lyons saw a season full of growth and lessons learned. “We played talented, well-coached teams all season long,” Lyons reflected. “While we often started strong, we struggled to finish games. Still, we ended the regular season with a four-game winning streak, which was huge for our confidence and secured our playoff spot.”
Perhaps the turning point came after winter break, when the Spartans shocked conference powerhouse Davie County on their home floor. That signature win helped launch the late-season surge that would ultimately define the Spartans’ resilience.
Young Core Stepping Up
Several underclassmen stepped into key roles as the season progressed. Sophomores Millie Scurry (#10), Brooke Cilento (#15), and Kayden Grayson (#3) all emerged as reliable contributors. Scurry led the team in three-point makes (38), while Cilento posted a memorable double-double, including a game-winner at Parkland High. Grayson, with her athleticism and defensive tenacity, led the team in steals.
Junior #0 Amani Morris became a steadying presence off the bench, boasting the team's highest FT and 3P shooting percentages. Senior utility player #12 Ella-Ashleigh Fulp filled any role needed, embodying the ultimate team-first mentality. Meanwhile, freshman #24 Nki Hemingway showcased her all-around talent after being moved up from JV, giving a glimpse of what’s to come.
Overcoming Challenges with Character
Injuries, illness, and tough losses didn’t derail the Spartans. A gutsy road win against a rival team, despite missing key players and one playing through illness, showcased the team’s heart. “We didn’t let adversity get the best of us,” said Coach Lyons. “Everyone had to stay ready. We had a next-player-up mentality.”
Farewell to a Gritty Senior Class
The leadership trio of Shaymiah Bailey, Ella-Ashleigh Fulp, and Keturah Kindle leaves a lasting legacy. Kindle, a defensive spark plug, brought relentless energy and fearlessness to every game. Together, this senior class modeled toughness, teamwork, and tenacity—laying the foundation for the next generation of Spartans.
A Promising Future Ahead
With a talented and experienced sophomore class, a strong JV pipeline, and returning players fully immersed in Coach Lyons’ system, the future looks bright at Mount Tabor. “For the first time, every player on the varsity roster will have been in my system for multiple seasons,” said Lyons. “That continuity is going to be critical for our growth—not just in skills, but in leadership and confidence.”
Offseason Goals
Looking ahead, the Spartans aim to sharpen their guard play. Ball handling, shooting, and decision-making will be the focus in preparation for a guard-heavy lineup in 2025-26.
Follow the Spartans
For full season stats, visit Mount Tabor Girls Basketball on MaxPreps.
, Brooke Cilento (#15), and Kayden Grayson (#3) all emerged as reliable contributors. Scurry led the team in three-point makes (38), while Cilento posted a memorable double-double, including a game-winner at Parkland High. Grayson, with her athleticism and defensive tenacity, led the team in steals.
Junior #0 Amani Morris became a steadying presence off the bench, boasting the team's highest FT and 3P shooting percentages. Senior utility player #12 Ella-Ashleigh Fulp filled any role needed, embodying the ultimate team-first mentality. Meanwhile, freshman #24 Nki Hemingway showcased her all-around talent after being moved up from JV, giving a glimpse of what’s to come.
Overcoming Challenges with Character
Injuries, illness, and tough losses didn’t derail the Spartans. A gutsy road win against a rival team, despite missing key players and one playing through illness, showcased the team’s heart. “We didn’t let adversity get the best of us,” said Coach Lyons. “Everyone had to stay ready. We had a next-player-up mentality.”
Farewell to a Gritty Senior Class
The leadership trio of Shaymiah Bailey, Ella-Ashleigh Fulp, and Keturah Kindle leaves a lasting legacy. Kindle, a defensive spark plug, brought relentless energy and fearlessness to every game. Together, this senior class modeled toughness, teamwork, and tenacity—laying the foundation for the next generation of Spartans.
A Promising Future Ahead
With a talented and experienced sophomore class, a strong JV pipeline, and returning players fully immersed in Coach Lyons’ system, the future looks bright at Mount Tabor. “For the first time, every player on the varsity roster will have been in my system for multiple seasons,” said Lyons. “That continuity is going to be critical for our growth—not just in skills, but in leadership and confidence.”
Offseason Goals
Looking ahead, the Spartans aim to sharpen their guard play. Ball handling, shooting, and decision-making will be the focus in preparation for a guard-heavy lineup in 2025-26.
Follow the Spartans
For full season stats, visit Mount Tabor Girls Basketball on MaxPreps.)
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