Lancaster Lady Tigers win first 6A state title, beating Westlake 51-37

The Lancaster Lady Tigers girls' basketball team secured the program's first Class 6A state championship.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Lancaster Lady Tigers girls' basketball team made history on Saturday night, securing the program's first Class 6A state title with a 51-37 victory over Austin Westlake at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

Why it matters

The Lady Tigers' championship win is a significant achievement for the program, marking their first-ever state title at the 6A level. The team drew inspiration from their assistant coach LaMesia McKinney, who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer last April, and the players were determined to win the title for her.

The details

Just days before the championship game, the Lady Tigers told CBS News Texas they were playing to win the title for their assistant coach LaMesia McKinney, who has continued to bring energy and encouragement to practices despite her cancer diagnosis. The players said McKinney's courage, positivity, and determination throughout the season have been a source of inspiration and motivation for the team.

  • The Lancaster Lady Tigers won the 2025-2026 6A Division II state championship on Saturday, March 8, 2026.

The players

LaMesia McKinney

The Lancaster Lady Tigers' assistant coach who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer last April.

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The takeaway

The Lancaster Lady Tigers' historic state championship victory is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the inspiration that can come from overcoming adversity. Their dedication to their assistant coach LaMesia McKinney, who is battling cancer, has united the team and driven them to achieve this remarkable accomplishment.