Jay Royals defeat Hilliard Red Flashes in FHSAA girls basketball semifinal

Photos capture the action as Jay advances to the state championship game

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Jay Royals defeated the Hilliard Red Flashes 53-39 in the FHSAA girls basketball Class Rural semifinal at UNF Arena in Jacksonville, Florida. The game featured intense competition on the court as the two teams battled for a spot in the state championship game.

Why it matters

This matchup between Hilliard and Jay represented a clash between two of the top rural high school girls basketball programs in Florida. The winner would advance to compete for the state title, a significant achievement for the school and community.

The details

The Jay Royals were led by strong performances from players like Hattie Locklin and Presley Hawthorne, who helped their team pull away in the second half for the victory. Hilliard fought hard throughout, with Alyssa Hallman and other players giving their all, but ultimately came up short against the Royals' stifling defense.

  • The FHSAA girls basketball Class Rural semifinal took place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at UNF Arena in Jacksonville, Florida.

The players

Hattie Locklin

A key player for the Jay Royals who contributed to the team's victory.

Presley Hawthorne

Another standout performer for the Jay Royals in their semifinal win.

Alyssa Hallman

A leading player for the Hilliard Red Flashes who played hard in the losing effort.

Daneisha Alderman

The head coach of the Hilliard Red Flashes.

Corey Perrine

The photographer who captured the images from the FHSAA girls basketball semifinal game.

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What’s next

The Jay Royals will advance to the FHSAA girls basketball state championship game, where they will look to capture the title.

The takeaway

This semifinal matchup showcased the high level of talent and competitiveness in Florida's rural high school girls basketball scene, with the Jay Royals emerging victorious to earn a spot in the state championship game.