Richland's Bailey Blair named to All-Area girls basketball team

The Daily Herald honors the standout player who led her team to the state tournament

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:14am

A fragmented, geometric painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, depicting the overlapping planes and perspectives of a girls' basketball game in an abstract, cubist composition.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic energy and movement of a high school girls' basketball game.Richland Today

Bailey Blair, a standout player for the Richland Lady Raiders, has been named to The Daily Herald's 2026 All-Area girls basketball team. Blair, who first suited up for the team in eighth grade, helped end Richland's 31-year state tournament hiatus and led the team to the state championship game.

Why it matters

Blair's selection to the All-Area team recognizes her impressive high school career and the impact she had on the Richland program. Her leadership and skill helped transform the Lady Raiders into a state contender after decades of struggle, inspiring the local community.

The details

As a junior, Blair played a crucial role in helping the Lady Raiders reach the state tournament for the first time in over 30 years. She continued to lead the team to the state championship game, where they ultimately fell short of the title.

  • Bailey Blair joined the Richland Lady Raiders in eighth grade.
  • Richland last reached the state tournament in 1983, over 20 years before Blair was born.
  • As a junior, Blair helped end Richland's 31-year state tournament drought.

The players

Bailey Blair

A standout player for the Richland Lady Raiders who led the team to the state tournament and championship game during her high school career.

Richland Lady Raiders

The high school girls basketball team that Bailey Blair played for, which had not reached the state tournament in over 30 years before her arrival.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've grown up here my whole life and I got to play in the state championship and play in the state tournament with my best friends and the people who have coached me over 10 years.”

— Bailey Blair

The takeaway

Bailey Blair's selection to the All-Area team is a testament to her exceptional talent and leadership, which helped transform the Richland Lady Raiders into a state contender after decades of struggle. Her accomplishments have inspired the local community and left a lasting legacy on the program.