ROCKINGHAM — Junior basketball player Makailah Jackson has been named the Official Richmond County Female Athlete of the Week presented by HWY 55.
The Richmond Senior High School girls’ basketball team is on a two-game winning streak, with Jackson proving to be a helping hand on both ends of the floor.
With the Lady Raiders prepared for their holiday tournament, this is Jackson’s first career recognition.
Athletic Profile
Year: Junior
Winter Sport: Basketball
Position: Center
Years on Varsity: 1 Year
“ON THE BOARDS” WITH MAKAILAH JACKSON
Making the decision to play basketball this year for the first time since middle school, Jackson has been a strong presence for the Lady Raiders. Richmond is currently on a two-game winning streak after dropping its first five games.
Opening Sandhills Athletic Conference play last Tuesday, the Lady Raiders used a strong fourth quarter to defeat Southern Lee High School 36-26. Jackson, whose primary role is defense and rebounding, provided all six of her points in the win in the second half.
While also leading the Lady Raiders in boards, Jackson hit a putback early in the third quarter to pull Richmond within a point of Southern Lee.
With 6:06 left in the fourth period, Jackson connected on a free throw to give the Lady Raiders a 24-23 lead, proving to be the start of a 13-3 run by the team to secure the victory.
Down the stretch, Jackson connected on a field goal from close range and chipped in another shot from the line. She was one of six Richmond players to score in the win.
The Lady Raiders (2-5) will open their holiday tournament against Cape Fear High School (4-3) on Tuesday. Playing at South View High School, play is slated to start at 7 p.m.
RAPID RESPONSE VIDEO WITH MAKAILAH JACKSON
In her video interview, Jackson talks about Richmond’s first two wins, a busy upcoming week in the Lady Raiders’ holiday tournament and explains her decision to play basketball this winter.
The Richmond Observer will publish its Official Richmond County Male Athlete of the Week soon.
