Lady Patriots advance to Class 7A Final Four on Thursday

Bob Jones girls' basketball team secures spot in state semifinals

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Lady Patriots of Bob Jones High School secured a spot in the Class 7A Final Four of the Alabama High School Athletic Association's Basketball State Tournament. The team defeated Prattville and Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa in the regional tournament to advance to the semifinals, where they will face Auburn on Thursday.

Why it matters

The Lady Patriots' run to the Final Four marks the first time the team has reached this stage since 2012, showcasing the program's resurgence under second-year head coach Sherell Robertson. The team's success highlights the strength of high school basketball in the Madison County area.

The details

In the regional tournament, Bob Jones defeated Prattville 64-47 behind 20 points from Ella Watts, and then defeated Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa 63-49, led by 26 points from Ja'Kyah Smith. Smith and Watts were named to the All-Tournament Team, with Smith earning MVP honors. The Lady Patriots shot 51% from the field and outrebounded their opponents 37-27 on the defensive end.

  • The Alabama High School Athletic Association's Basketball State Tournament is set for this week.
  • Bob Jones will play in the Class 7A Semi-Finals on Thursday at 9 a.m. versus Auburn.

The players

Sherell Robertson

Head coach of the Bob Jones Lady Patriots, in her second season leading the team.

Ella Watts

Bob Jones player who scored 20 points in the regional semifinal win over Prattville.

Ja'Kyah Smith

Bob Jones player who scored 26 points in the regional final win over Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa and was named the tournament MVP.

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What they’re saying

“I feel our girls are focused and very confident going into the Final Four as they have maintained their belief of being the best and are ready for a championship run.”

— Sherell Robertson, Head coach, Bob Jones Lady Patriots (themadisonrecord.com)

“We stayed on our game plan in the latest victory. We overcame some adversity this season and are ready for the challenge at the Final Four.”

— Sherell Robertson, Head coach, Bob Jones Lady Patriots (themadisonrecord.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.