Middleton’s 2015 Lady Tigers State Championship Team Return to the Court {video}
Ten years is a long time, but for the basketball Lady Tigers of the 2015 Girls State Championship title team, it could have been just yesterday. Although much time has passed, on Saturday, January 4, 2025, the returning players from that championship title team attended a recognition ceremony and settled in quite well just like they use to do when they played together as a team.
Players from that championship team, who attended included Deja Faulkner (#42), Cherelle Jones (#35), Averyale Joy (#1), Dakedra Mason (#30), Rachelle Parks (#44), Alexis Pledge (#3), Tatiayana Prewitt (#24), Tyra Smith (#52), Kiarea Walton (#5), Sequoya Warren (#10), and Antonia Whatley (#14). Chelsea Perry (#20) was unable to attend due to a basketball coaching commitment.
The current MHS Lady Tigers and Tigers played the McNairy Central High School (MCHS) Bobcats basketball teams. The ceremony was held in between the two games in the new gym. Although the girls, now women, never had the opportunity to play on the gym floor, they did sit together in the stands as fans during the basketball games cheering on the MHS players. The MHS Lady Tigers made them proud as they beat the Bobcats 56-50.
“I think they did really good,” said Deja Faulkner when asked if the MHS Lady Tigers were keeping the 2015 team legacy alive. “They made the game really interesting in the end and came out with the win like we knew they were going to do.”
Along with recognizing the players, a huge shout out was given to MHS basketball Coach James Burkley, who has seen a lot of players come through the MHS basketball program. In February 2023, Coach Burkley recognized the 2008 Middleton High School Lady Tigers State Tournament team, which brought out many of the former players.
“It feels great to be back. The memories, the reminiscing, I really love it! I am so proud of everybody. I am glad we are back and enjoying this moment,” said Averyale Joy, who complimented the current Lady Tigers on their win. “They did awesome. Great job!”
Coach Burkley has made a positive impact on so many of his former MHS student athletes. A few of the players shared some words from Coach Burkley, which have carried throughout their lives over the years.
Deja Faulkner and Tatiayana Prewitt both thought hard for a moment and simultaneously shared the same words, “work hard!”
“Be patient and let it come to you,” said Averyale Joy.
Congratulations again to the 2015 Lady Tigers basketball team, the District 15A Champions, Region 8A Champions, and the TSSAA Class A State Champions. You will always be remembered for your effort!
On Tuesday, January 14, 2025, Middleton will recognize the 2010 Middleton High School Lady Tigers basketball team, which made it to the Final Four in 2010 with a 30-3 record.
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