River Ridge Girls Basketball Team honored for 2025 State Championship victory

The Woodstock City Council celebrated a significant achievement during its recent meeting on April 14, 2025, honoring the River Ridge High School Girls Basketball team for their remarkable success. The team, known as the Knights, clinched the Class 5A state championship by defeating Langston Hughes High School with a score of 52 to 47 on March 7, 2025.

In a heartfelt proclamation, the council recognized the team's outstanding season, which concluded with an impressive record of 31 wins and just one loss. This achievement not only secured them the title of 2025 GHSA '5A Girls Basketball State Champions' but also positioned them as the number one ranked team in Georgia and the 20th in the nation.

Head coach Jason Taylor, along with assistant coaches Blake Davis, Barry Lakes, and Gabby Garza, were commended for their leadership, guiding the team through tough competitions, including victories over top-ranked teams from Florida and Alabama. Notably, the Knights showcased their resilience with a thrilling fourth-quarter comeback against Langston Hughes, who were ranked 21st nationally.

The council also highlighted the individual contributions of key players: senior Kayla Cleveland and sophomore Finley Parker led the team in points and rebounds, while senior Sofia Pearl excelled in assists, and junior Mikaela Roberson dominated in blocks. The Knights scored a total of 2,294 points throughout the season, while conceding only 1,477, resulting in a remarkable point difference of 817.

This celebration not only honors the team's achievements but also reflects the community's pride in their local athletes. The council's recognition serves as a reminder of the positive impact that sports can have on youth and the community as a whole. As the River Ridge Knights continue to inspire, the city looks forward to supporting their future endeavors on and off the court.