TATUM BOWS OUT | Lady Eagles upended by Ponder in 3A regional semifinals

There are surprises, and there are shocks.

Friday’s result from the University Interscholastic League’s Class 3A Regional Tournament in Forney was a shock. And that’s why they call them “upsets.”

Tatum, ranked in the Texas Girls Coaches Association’s state poll the entire season (and for several weeks, including now, ranked No. 2 in the state), ended its season on Friday in the regional semifinals, a 24-26, 19-25, 20-25 loss to Ponder.

The loss ended the Lady Eagles’ unbelievable season: a district championship, 20 straight wins, individual accolades, playoff wins – and a 40-win season, and just six losses.

Kamdyn Scott had 16 kills, five digs and three blocks for the Lady Eagles. Kaysen Foster had 13 kills. Karly Stroud had 20 digs. Taydem Barker had eight, to go with 30 assists. Kyndal Greenwood had five digs. Taylor Jacobs had four, and two kills. Aundrea Bradley also had two kills and also had three digs.

Another East Texas regional semifinalist, New Diana, also lost Friday, swept by Gunter. Gunter and Ponder (36-5) will play each other in the regional finals, also at Forney High, on Saturday.