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Albany Today
By the People, for the People
KJ Acree scores 48 as Monroe rolls into second round
Monroe star pours in career-high to lead Lady Nadas to dominant playoff win
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Monroe High School's star player Kie'Aundria Acree scored a career-high 48 points to lead the top-seeded Lady Nadas to an 84-34 victory over East Hall in the opening round of the Class AAA girls state basketball playoffs. Acree scored 33 points in the first half alone as Monroe raced to a commanding 56-18 halftime lead, using defensive pressure and transition offense to quickly separate from the visiting Lady Vikings. The Lady Nadas continued to extend the lead in the second half, with Taylor McKinzy adding 20 points and Maleyah Hines dominating the glass with 14 points and 18 rebounds. Monroe will now host White County of Cleveland in the second round.
Why it matters
This playoff win for the top-seeded Monroe Lady Nadas showcases the team's dominance and the standout performance of star player Kie'Aundria Acree, who is emerging as one of the top high school basketball players in the state. The lopsided victory also sets up an intriguing second-round matchup against a highly-ranked White County squad, with the winner moving one step closer to a state championship.
The details
Behind Acree's relentless scoring and an overwhelming defensive effort, Monroe built a massive halftime lead and never allowed East Hall a chance to settle into the game. Acree scored 33 points in the first half alone, using defensive pressure and transition offense to quickly separate from the visiting Lady Vikings. The Lady Nadas continued to extend the lead in the second half, with Taylor McKinzy knocking down consecutive three-pointers and Maleyah Hines dominating the glass.
- The game was played on Tuesday night.
- Monroe officials are hopeful the second-round matchup against White County could be played on Friday.
The players
Kie'Aundria Acree
The star player for the Monroe Lady Nadas, who scored a career-high 48 points in the playoff win.
Taylor McKinzy
A key contributor for Monroe, finishing with 20 points in the victory.
Maleyah Hines
Dominated the glass for Monroe, recording 14 points and 18 rebounds.
Jennifer Acree
The head coach of the Monroe Lady Nadas.
White County
The opponent Monroe will face in the second round, described as a highly-ranked team.
What they’re saying
“We just got to play. Proud of the girls. No let ups. Stay hungry. We will continue to do work and practice hard to get ready for White County. They have been ranked all year, so I know they will bring a great challenge.”
— Jennifer Acree, Head Coach, Monroe Lady Nadas (albanyherald.com)
What’s next
Monroe officials are hopeful the second-round matchup against White County could be played on Friday alongside a potential boys playoff game if the Tornadoes advance.
The takeaway
Kie'Aundria Acree's dominant 48-point performance in the playoff opener showcases Monroe's status as a top contender for the Class AAA girls state basketball championship, setting up an intriguing second-round showdown against a highly-ranked White County squad as the Lady Nadas continue their quest for a title.
