Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com In conjunction with WBHF and Bartow Sports Zone, Elite Stone Supply presents the ELITE ATHLETES OF THE MONTH. Each month, local high schools select an Elite Athlete of the Month from their varsity programs and share the information about their honoree through Bartow Sports Zone and on 100.3 FM and AM 1450, WBHF in Cartersville. Kaytlin Arnold is the Cartersville High School Elite Athlete of the Month for January 2026. A senior guard on the Lady Canes basketball team, she is the daughter of Timothy and April Arnold. “Kaytlin is the ultimate competitor,” noted Cartersville basketball coach Alvah Beasley. “She hates to lose and is a great leader. She works just as hard in the classroom as she does on the court.” Arnold, one of the team’s top scorers, has helped lead the Lady Canes to a 17-4 record heading into February. She has averaged 16.4 points, four rebounds, and three steals per game. She has signed with Columbus State University to play basketball and maintains a 4.0 GPA. Arnold is a Beta Club member and has completed eight dual enrollment classes. The Adairsville High School Elite Athlete of the Month is Andrew Harris. A junior and standout leader on the Tigers’ swimming team, Harris began his swim career in the seventh grade and is also a dedicated member of the Adairsville Raiders. Harris has qualified for the GHSA State Championships in the 100-yard butterfly, and he is a member of the Tigers’ 200-yard freestyle relay team that has also qualified for the state meet. “Andrew’s hard work and commitment continue to set him apart,” said Adairsville swim coach Tyler Branick. “He is a motivated, disciplined leader who leads by example. His teammates look up to him.” Harris is interested in becoming a Navy diver. Owen Jones is the January 2026 Elite Athlete of the Month representing Woodland High School. A senior on the Wildcats’ wrestling team who has already won the state dual championship and the region traditional tournament heading into February. He competes in the 190-pound division. “Owen has shown up in the biggest moments to help his team,” noted Woodland coach Brett Shedd. “He pinned the returning state runner-up en route to helping us win the state dual title. He always works hard and pushes his teammates to reach new heights.” He is the son of Chad and Malinda Jones and plans to wrestle at the collegiate level. Derris Reece is the January 2026 Elite Athlete of the Month for Cass High School. A starting forward on the Colonels’ basketball team, he is the son of Danica Reece and serves as one of the team’s captains. Reece is averaging 6.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists per game heading into February, but also demonstrates true leadership through his impact on people off the court. “Derris is constantly encouraging others, building connections, and sharing a positive word in the locker room and in our hallways,” said Cass coach Kevin Cunningham. “His work ethic and strong character have helped to make him a great teammate and leader in our program. Reece is an active member in the school community and maintains a 3.56 GPA. Editor's Note: The respective schools and athletic departments supply Bartow Sports Zone and WBHF with photos and bios. Elite Stone Supply Co., LLC is the monthly sponsor. Athletes receive a plaque and recognition during a WBHF radio feature. #EliteAthletesoftheMonth #Cass #Cartersville #Woodland #Adairsville #highschool

February 2, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com The Excel Christian Academy boys routed Holy Ground Baptist Academy 96-24 on Monday night at Hearts Academy in Powder Springs in the semifinals of the GAPPS Region 1-IA Tournament. The Eagles built an early lead and were never threatened in their 72-point win. Excel led 26-11 after one quarter; 59-18 at halftime; and 74-19 at the end of the third quarter. Damir McBride led the Eagles with 16 points. Tristan Jenkins followed with 14 points. Mason McKinney finished with 11, and Jamari Gatson added 10 points in the tournament win. Cooper Farmer scored nine points for the Stallions, who finished the year with a 3-13 record. Excel Christian (19-6) will play in the region championship game on Thursday in Powder Springs against the Hearts Academy/Praise Academy winner.

February 2, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com Jaylee Long from Adairsville High claimed the championship in the 100-pound weight class at the Georgia High School Association Area 7 Girls Tournament held at LaFayette High School on Monday. Long achieved a 4-0 record and progressed to the GHSA State Sectional, which will take place on Friday at the Edwards Park Gym in Dalton. The Cass girls had two wrestlers to go 3-2 in their respective weight divisions. Ryland Piatt (130) earned a fifth-place finish and will be an alternate at the Sectional. Brooklyn West (115) had her fifth-place bout carried over to Friday in Dalton. The winner will be an alternate for the Sectional. Bailey White (105) of Cass finished 1-2 at the Area Tournament. The Region 7-AAA boys wrestling tournament, including Adairsville, will take place on Tuesday at LaFayette High School. It was postponed from Friday due to the weather system over the past weekend.

February 2, 2026 Region basketball standings for local high school teams, including their schedules for the week. LOCAL REGION STANDINGS (thru Monday, February 2) BOYS GAPPS Region 1 IA Sub A Region All Games This week Excel Christian Academy 6-0 18-6 Region semifinal v. Holy Ground Bapt. / Finals on Thur. Praise Academy 4-2 16-6 Region semifinal v. Hearts Academy / Finals on Thur Oakwood Christian 1-4 2-19 The Stonehaven School 0-5 0-12 GIRLS GAPPS Region 1 IA Sub-A Region All Games This week Oakwood Christian 6-0 12-9 Region championship game Praise Academy 3-3 8-14 Region semifinal v. Excel Excel Christian Academy 3-3 5-10 Region semifinal v. Praise The Stonehaven School 0-6 0-13 BOYS GHSA Region 7-AAAA Region All Games This week Cartersville 10-1 17-4 SE WHITFIELD, WOODLAND Hiram 10-1 14-8 ALLATOONA, DALTON Allatoona 7-3 13-7 at Hiram, CASS Dalton 7-4 13-8 at Cass, at Hiram Cass 5-6 6-14 DALTON, at Allatoona, CHEROKEE Cedartown 3-8 7-14 WOODLAND, at SE Whitfield Woodland 1-10 8-14 at Cedartown, at Cartersville SE Whitfield 0-10 0-20 at Cartersville, CEDARTOWN GIRLS GHSA Region 7-AAAA Region All Games This week Dalton 8-1 16-3 at Cass, at Hiram Cartersville 8-1 15-4 SE WHITFIELD, WOODLAND Cass 7-2 8-10 DALTON, at Allatoona Hiram 5-4 7-10 ALLATOONA, DALTON Allatoona 4-5 7-12 at Hiram, CASS Cedartown 3-6 6-12 WOODLAND, at SE Whitfield SE Whitfield 1-8 2-16 at Cartersville, CEDARTOWN Woodland 0-9 3-17 at Cedartown, at Cartersville BOYS GHSA Region 7-AAA Region All Games This week Calhoun 8-0 15-2 ADAIRSVILLE, at Ridgeland Heritage-Catoosa 8-2 14-6 GILMER, at Ringgold NW Whitfield 5-3 12-7 LAFAYETTE, at Gilmer LaFayette 5-4 14-7 at NW Whitfield, at Adairsville Gilmer 3-6 7-14 at Heritage, NW WHITFIELD Adairsville 2-8 3-20 at Calhoun, LAFAYETTE Ridgeland 1-9 8-14 HIXTON, CALHOUN GIRLS GHSA Region 7-AAA Region All Games This week Gilmer 8-1 14-7 at Heritage, NW WHITFIELD Heritage-Catoosa 8-2 18-4 GILMER, at Ringgold Ridgeland 7-3 18-3 HIXSON, CALHOUN NW Whitfield 4-4 12-8 LAFAYETTE, at Gilmer Adairsville 3-7 9-14 at Calhoun, LAFAYETTE LaFayette 2-7 16-7 at NW Whitfield, at Adairsville Calhoun 0-8 3-17 ADAIRSVILLE, at Ridgeland

February 2, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com This week’s update includes contributions from more than two dozen collegiate athletes in six different sports across the country. BASKETBALL TAFF BRADLEY — Huntingdon College (So., Cartersville HS) … scored six points with three rebounds, one steal, and one blocked shot in a 61-43 Lady Hawks’ win at Wesleyan College in Macon. Huntingdon also won 82-70 at Covenant College this past Saturday, improving to 9-9 overall and 6-3 in the Collegiate Conference of the South. The Hawks host Belhaven University (MS) on Tuesday, Asbury University (KY) on Friday, and Piedmont University (GA) on Saturday. NA’YEL CAMPER — Reinhardt University (So., Cartersville HS) … did not have a stat line in a brief appearance last Wednesday (Jan. 28) during a 72-57 home win over Johnson University (TN). The Eagles (15-5, 12-1 Appalachian Athletic Conference) visit Columbia International University (SC) on Monday, host Spartanburg Methodist (SC) on Wednesday, and welcome Bryan College (TN) on Saturday. SE’NAI CAMPER — Montreat College (Fr., Cartersville HS) … scored six points with three rebounds, one assist, and one steal last Wednesday (Jan. 28) in a 98-57 loss at Milligan University (TN). The Cavaliers (7-14, 5-10 Appalachian Athletic Conference) visit Carolina University (NC) on Saturday. JA’KA’YAH DRAUGHN — Brewton-Parker Christian University (So., Cartersville HS) … posted 17 points, two steals, one assist, and one rebound last Thursday in an 82-67 home loss to the University of Tennessee Southern. The Barons (4-17, 3-7 Southern States Athletic Conference) host Blue Mountain University (MS) on Tuesday, Faulkner University (AL) on Thursday, and the University of Mobile (AL)  on Saturday. ANSLEY GRIFFIN — North Carolina Wesleyan University (So., Cartersville HS) … totaled eight points and two rebounds in wins last Wednesday (Jan. 28) at Methodist University (NC) and at home over Salem University (WV). The Batlling Bishops (10-8, 8-4 USA South Athletic Conference) host Methodist on Tuesday and Meredith College (NC) on Saturday. ZION HAYES — Vincennes University (So., Cass HS) … grabbed nine rebounds with two assists and one steal last Wednesday (Jan. 28) in a 54-45 loss at Southwestern Illinois College. Vincennes also beat John A Logan College 73-45 this past Saturday, but no stats were available at the time of this release. The Trailblazers (14-7) visit Lincoln Trail College (IL) on Wednesday and Shawnee CC (IL) on Saturday. KEARA McDANIEL — Toccoa Falls College (Sr., Cass HS) … scored 12 points last Thursday with eight assists, four steals, and three rebounds in a 77-45 win at Southeastern Baptist College (MS). McDaniel then scored eight points with four rebounds, four assists, and three steals this past Saturday in a 67-57 loss at Pensacola Christian College. The Screaming Eagles (7-14)  host Bob Jones University (SC) on Tuesday, Paine College (GA) on Wednesday, Trinity College-Jacksonville (FL) on Friday, and Southeastern Baptist College (MS) on Saturday. T.J. PRINTUP — Tusculum University (Jr., Adairsville HS) … totaled 24 points, 13 rebounds, six steals, four blocked shots, and two assists in road losses last Wednesday (Jan. 28) and last Friday at Carson-Newman University (TN) and Wingate University (NC). The Pioneers (8-12, 4-10 South Atlantic Conference) host Lincoln Memorial University (TN) on Wednesday before visiting Catawba College (NC) on Saturday. MEGAN SCHULTZ — Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (So., Woodland HS) … scored two points with one rebound and one assist last Thursday in a 91-60 home loss to Faulkner University (AL). She also saw brief playing time in a 77-73 home loss to the University of Mobile (AL) on Saturday. The Fillies (5-14, 2-8 Southern States Athletic Conference) visit Loyola University (LA) on Thursday and William Carey University (MS) on Saturday. LONDAISHA SMITH — Reinhardt University (Sr., Cass HS) … scored five points with six rebounds, six steals, and one assist in the Lady Eagles’ 72-57 home win last Wednesday (Jan. 28) over Johnson University (TN). Reinhardt (15-5, 12-1 Appalachian Athletic Conference) visits Columbia International University (SC) on Monday, hosts Spartanburg Methodist (SC) on Wednesday, and welcomes Bryan College (TN) on Saturday. GYMNASTICS ABIGAIL BUNCH — Rhode Island College (Sr., Cass HS) … scored a 9.450 on balance beam and a 9.025 on the uneven bars this past Sunday as the Anchorwomen defeated Springfield College (MA), but lost to host Ithaca College (NY). RIC visits Springfield College on Sunday and will also face Brown University. WRESTLING LEE CAMP — Reinhardt University (So., Cass HS) … won his bout this past Saturday at 133 pounds by technical fall as the Eagles won at Brewton-Parker Christian University 40-3. The Eagles return to action on Saturday at the University of Montevallo (AL).  BRYCE KRESHO — Franklin & Marshall College (Sr., Cass HS) … won his 141-pound bout by pin as the Diplomats won 30-11 this past Saturday at Drexel University in Philadelphia. On Sunday, Kresho won a 10-3 decision over his Hofstra University opponent in a 23-15 home win. Franklin & Morris hosts Morgan State University on Wednesday, February 11. CADEN McCRARY — Reinhardt University (Sr., Woodland HS) … won his bout at 141 pounds with a 4-2 decision this past Saturday as the Eagles won 40-3 at Brewton-Parker Christian University. Reinhardt travels to the University of Montevallo (AL) on Saturday. HAYDEN SANTORA — Reinhardt University (So., Woodland HS) … won his 165-pound bout by technical fall this past Saturday during a 40-3 Eagles win at Brewton-Parker Christian University. RU visits the University of Montevallo (AL) on Saturday. SOFTBALL KILEY ARNOLD — Shorter University (Jr., Cartersville HS) … went 0-for-6 with one RBI on a sacrifice fly last Friday in the Hawks’ two opening wins last Friday at home over Lee University. Shorter (2-0) will face McKendree University (IL), Palm Beach Atlantic University (FL), Union University (TN), and the University of Illinois-Springfield on Friday and Saturday at the Lee University Invitational in Cleveland, Tennessee. RACHAEL LEE — Valdosta State University (Sr., Cass HS) … went 1-for-13 with one double and one RBI in four starts at first base this past weekend at the Gulf Shores Invitational. The Blazers suffered losses to Spring Hill College (AL), 18th-ranked Rogers State (OK), and Northeastern State University (OK) before edging Middle Georgia State in their final game at the event. VSU (1-3) visits the University of North Georgia on Saturday for two games. BASEBALL MICAH EARWOOD — Southeastern University (Sr., Cartersville HS) … made a one-inning pitching appearance in the seventh this past Saturday in the Fire’s 9-8 loss to visiting Montreat College (NC). Southeastern (3-1) hosts 12th-ranked Oklahoma Wesleyan University for a three-game series in Lakeland, Florida, on Friday and Saturday. NICHOLAS HRUBY — Bryan College (Fr., Cartersville HS) … made a two-inning start with no decision last Friday in a 7-5 loss at 2nd-ranked Georgia Gwinnett College in Lawrenceville. Hruby allowed three earned runs on three hits and two walks. The Lions (0-3) host Marian University (IN) on Friday and Saturday for a four-game series. AIDAN LARKIN — Georgia Highlands College (Fr., Cartersville HS) … went 4-for-13, including one double and two RBI, as the Chargers went 2-2 at the Visit Panama City (FL) Classic. GHC beat Gulf Coast State College and Tallahassee State College, but lost to State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, and Wabash Valley College (IL). The Chargers host Cleveland State CC (TN) for a doubleheader on Tuesday and USC Lancaster for four games on Friday and Saturday. LUKE MILLER — Columbus State University (So., Cartersville HS) … went 2-for-6, including one double, one walk, one hit by pitch, one sacrifice fly, and one RBI in two home losses to the University of West Alabama this past weekend. The Cougars (0-2) play a three-game series on Friday through Sunday at Lenoir-Rhyne University (NC) DREW ROTHSCHILD — Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (Sr., Cartersville HS) … went 4-for-10, including two home runs, one double, and six RBI in a three-game home series last Friday and Saturday with Indiana Wesleyan University. The Stallions salvaged one of three games in the series. ABAC (4-2) travels to Lake Wales, Florida, for a doubleheader at Warner University on Friday and two games against Indiana University-South Bend on Saturday. JARRETT SCOTT — Bryan College (Fr., Adairsville HS) … made two starts and appeared in three games this past weekend at Georgia Gwinnett College. Scott went 1-for-5 at the plate and scored one run in three losses. The Lions (0-3) welcome Marian University (IN) for four games on Friday and Saturday. SAWYER WILSON — Columbus State University (So., Cartersville HS) … entered with two outs in the fourth inning and retired four of the eight batters he faced in the Cougars’ 8-6 loss to visiting West Alabama this past Sunday. Wilson allowed no runs on one hit, two walks, and one hit batter. He recorded one strikeout. CSU (0-2) visits Lenoir-Rhyne University (NC) for three games on Friday through Sunday. TRACK & FIELD BARRETT STEPP — Augusta University (Fr., Cartersville HS) … placed 53rd in the 800 meters (2:08.59) last Friday at the Tyron International Banked Invitational in Mill Spring, North Carolina. Next for the Jaguars is the Tyron Mid Winter Invitational on February 13-14. DANIELLE THAYER — Augusta University (Jr., Woodland HS) … finished seventh (18:42.28) in the 5000 meters last Friday at the Tyron International Banked Invitational in Mill Spring, North Carolina. Next for the Jaguars is the Tyron Mid Winter Invitational on February 13-14. JOSEPH WOMACK — Furman University (So., Cartersville resident, Darlington HS) … placed 40th (49.46) in the 400 meters last Saturday at the Clemson University Bob Pollock Invitational. The Paladins travel to Boston on February 13-14 for the David Hemery Valentine Invitational hosted by Boston University.

February 1, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com Georgia Highlands College baseball kicked off its 2026 season last Thursday and Friday with a series of four games in Panama City, Florida. The Chargers had mixed results, winning against Gulf Coast State 2-0 and Tallahassee State 6-3, but falling to State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota 22-2 and Wabash Valley College (IL) 6-3. Carson Page and Cartersville High alumnus Aidan Larkin each recorded four hits during the Chargers' four-game series. Larkin, who transferred to GHC from the University of Kentucky, included a double and two RBIs among his hits. Wyatt Gatlin added two doubles and a two-run home run. Andrew Bishop (double) and Caden Marcos (double, RBI) each had three hits on the trip. Ian Fullerton contributed two hits, featuring a double and an RBI with a sac fly. Noah McMahon and Reed Thursby combined to shut out Gulf Coast State in the opener. McMahon went five innings and struck out four to earn the pitching win. Thursby tossed two shutout innings for a save.  David McKechnie recorded seven strikeouts in a four-inning start to collect the Chargers’ pitching win over Tallahassee State. Jack Burns fanned two of the three Tallahassee State batters he faced to pick up a save. Georgia Highlands (2-2) hosts Cleveland State CC (TN) for a doubleheader on Tuesday. The Chargers will then welcome USC Lancaster for a four-game series on Friday and Saturday.

January 31, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com (Edited on Saturday, 1 p.m.) Woodland wrestling won the 2026 Region 7-AAAA Traditional Tournament championship Friday night by outscoring host Cass, 266.5 to 244 in the eight-team event. Woodland and Cass each had five individuals win region championships in their respective weight divisions, and the two programs had wrestlers face off in the finals in seven of the fourteen weight classes. Dalton finished third in the team competition with 179.5 points, followed by Allatoona (154), Southeast Whitfield (113.5), Hiram (87), Cartersville (71.5), and Cedartown (68). The top four placers in each weight class advanced.to the Class AAAA State Sectionals on Saturday, February 7, at Cambridge High School.  Woodland advanced thirteen individuals; Cass had twelve wrestlers to extend their seasons; and Cartersville advanced three. Cayden Bagely (106), Adrian Zapata (126), Nathan Cates (157), Owen Jones (190), and John Gill (215) each won their weight class brackets. Bryton Glenn (120), Noah Cates (138), Dylan Couey (144), Aiden Buchanan (150), Skylar Pizzutiello (165), and Paul Lanier (175) each placed second. Nick Weathersbee (113) and Will Thomas (285) finished fourth for the Wildcats. Hayden Trimm (120), Rowdy Duck (138), Luka Jensen (144), Ethan Harrington (165), and Mason Tompkins (175) won region titles for the Colonels. Brandon Lalbehari (106) and David Jewell (157) were weight class runners-up. Justus Fife (126), Ethan Edwards (132), and Codey Dean (215) placed third. Collin Armona (150) and Logan Crisp (190) advanced with fourth-place finishes. Jair Flores of Cartersville won the 113-pound weight class, with teammates Peter Cepada (165) and Palarreus Richards (175) placing third. The Region 7-AAA tournament that includes the Adairsville boys, was postponed until Monday at LaFayette High School. The Girls Area Tournament will also be held on Monday at LaFayette.

January 31, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com On Friday night, the Cartersville girls and the Adairsville boys secured home region basketball victories, highlighting local results. Meanwhile, the Cartersville boys suffered their first region loss of the season. CARTERSVILLE GIRLS 58, HIRAM 41 Zoe McCurry poured in 26 points and added eight rebounds Friday night as the Lady Canes defeated Hiram 58-41 at The Storm Center.  Cartersville led 16-7 after one quarter and never trailed. The Lady Canes led 26-15 at halftime and 43-30 through three quarters. Trinity Montgomery posted 17 points, eight boards, and three assists in the Lady Canes’ Region 7-AAAA victory. Blakely Morris added nine rebounds, seven points, and two steals. Brittain Payne scored 18 points for the Lady Hornets (8-11, 6-5). Taylor Gaddis added eight. Cartersville (17-4, 10-1) hosts Allatoona on Tuesday at 6 p.m. ADAIRSVILLE BOYS 62, RIDGELAND 39 The Adairsville boys snapped a six-game losing skid Friday night with a 62-39 home win over Region 7-AAA foe Ridgeland. The Tigers led 22-21 at the intermission, but overpowered the Panthers 24-2 in the third quarter to take command en route to a 23-point win. Lucas Poarch scored 24 points for the Tigers, and Elijah Pearson added 10 in the victory. Jamarcus Lewis had 17 points for Ridgeland (8-14, 1-9). Striker Harden added nine. Adairsville (3-20, 2-8) travels to Calhoun on Tuesday night. HIRAM 86, CARTERSVILLE BOYS 84 The Purple Hurricanes lost a Region 7-AAAA game for the first time this season on Friday night, falling to the visiting Hiram Hornets 86-84. Cartersville held narrow leads of 48-44 at halftime and 70-62 at the end of the third quarter, but Hiram outscored the Canes 24-14 in the final period to squeeze out a two-point victory. The Hornets’ win pulled them into a first-place tie with the Canes at the top of the region standings with three league games remaining. Jordan Smith and AJ Williams led Hiram (14-8, 10-1) with 25 and 23 points, respectively. Karon Fluker and Naeem McKanney each added 10 points. Xavier Lowe led the Hurricanes with 28 points and three rebounds. Wyatt Thomason finished with 17 points, five boards, and four assists. Kyron McClendon contributed 16 points, five rebounds, and three assists. Nas Bennett added 11 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Cartersville (17-4, 10-1) hosts winless Southeast Whitfield on Tuesday. RIDGELAND 46, ADAIRSVILLE GIRLS 34 A scoreless third quarter doomed the Lady Tigers on Friday night in a 46-34 home loss to the Ridgeland Lady Panthers. Adairsville led 20-18 at halftime, but was outscored 15-0 in the third quarter. Jamiah Lewis led the Lady Panthers with 14 points. Sha Elliott scored 13 and Jordyn Thomas added 10 for Ridgeland (18-3, 7-3). Alivia Joslin was the top scorer for the Lady Tigers with 14 points. Savannah Viktora pitched in five points. Adairsville (9-14, 3-7) visits Calhoun on Tuesday for a 6 p.m. tip. DALTON 76, WOODLAND GIRLS 21 The sixth-ranked Dalton Lady Catamounts defeated the Woodland girls on Friday night, 76-21. Dalton improved to 18-3 overall and remained tied with Cartersville atop the Region 7-AAAA standings at 10-1. Woodland (3-19, 0-11) visits Cedartown on Tuesday at 6 p.m. DALTON 60, WOODLAND BOYS 45 The Woodland Wildcats kept their region game at Dalton close for more than three quarters on Friday night, but fell to the Catamounts 60-45. Woodland led 18-16 after one quarter; trailed 26-20 at the intermission; and was behind 39-33 through three quarters. Dalton outscored the Wildcats 21-12 over the final eight minutes to pull away. “We played hard,” said Woodland coach Kip Dyer on Friday night, “but we just ran out of gas in the final quarter.” Landon Dougherty led the Wildcats with 12 points. Amir Heath posted 11, and Canden Davis scored 10 in the loss. Woodland (8-14, 1-10) travels to Cedartown on Tuesday for a 7:30 p.m. tip.

January 30, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com The Region 7-AAAA Traditional Wrestling will be conducted at Cass High School on Friday, with action beginning on the mats at 3 p.m. The top four placers in the region tournament will advance to the GHSA Sectionals next weekend at Cambridge High School in Milton. Local wrestlers that are No. 1 seeds in their respective brackets in Region 7-AAAA: 106 pounds —  Cayden Bagley, Woodland 120 — Hayden Trimm, Cass 126 — Adrian Zapata, Woodland 138 — Rowdy Duck, Cass 144 — Luka Jensen, Cass 157 — David Jewell, Cass 165 — Ethan Harrington, Cass 175 — Mason Tompkins, Cass 190 — Owen Jones, Woodland 215 — John Gill, Woodland The Adairsville wrestlers will be in action at the Region 7-AAA tournament at LaFayette High School on Friday, and the local girls wrestlers will compete on Monday at LaFayette. The girls' tournament was originally scheduled for Saturday, but has been moved due to potential inclement weather.

January 29, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com The Cass girls’ and boys’ basketball teams celebrated their 2026 seniors on Thursday night, with each team earning Region 7-AAAA wins over visiting Cedartown. The Lady Colonels trailed at halftime, and the Colonels trailed through three quarters before both teams rallied for victories. CASS GIRLS 59, CEDARTOWN 34 Visiting Cedartown led the Lady Colonels 25-21 at the intermission, but Cass outsocred the Lady Bulldogs 18-2 in the third quarter and 20-7 in the final eight minutes to earn a 25-point region win. Anizah Taylor led Cass with 18 points. Cadie Paez followed with 14. Yvonne Ellison scored 13 points, and Nakayla Evans added nine in the Lady Colonels’ win. Hadlee Robinson scored 11 points for Cedartown (6-14, 3-8) Cass (9-11, 8-3) hosts sixth-ranked Dalton on Tuesday. CASS BOYS 69, CEDARTOWN 62 Sophomore Isaiah Moreno led Cass on Thursday night with 20 points. The Colonels and Bulldogs traded leads several times on Thursday night, but host Cass outscored Cedartown 17-9 in the fourth quarter for a 69-62 Region 7-AAAA win. Cass led 24-14 at the end of the first quarter, but Cedartown held a 37-34 advantage at halftime and a 53-52 edge at the end of the third quarter. “Everyone stepped up big for each other,” said Cass coach Kevin Cunningham after Thursday’s game. “On senior night, I am really proud of DJ Sams, Derris Reece, and Cam’ron Beauford for leading their teammates to victory.” Isaiah Moreno led the Colonels with a game-high 20 points. Beauford, Sams, and Lucas Pealor each scored 13 points. Zane Diamond Pasley paced Cedartown (7-14, 3-8) with 15 points. Devion Smith scored 13 points. JP Price and Colton Prather each added 12. Cass (6-14, 5-6) welcomes Dalton on Tuesday.

January 28, 2026 Excel Christian Academy celebrated its senior players on Wednesday night with home wins over The Stonehaven School. EXCEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY GIRLS 54, THE STONEHAVEN SCHOOL 11 The Excel Christian Lady Eagles made it four wins in their last six games on Wednesday night with a 54-11 home victory over The Stonehaven School of Marietta.  Excel Christian led 10-1 after one quarter, 20-3 at the intermission, and extended it to 40-5 through three quarters. Sienna Hix led the Lady Eagles with 20 points. Carolina Olatora and Chloe Jinks also reached double figures with 14 and 12 points, respectively. Anna Gentry led The Stonehaven School (0-12, 0-5) with six points. The Excel girls (5-10, 3-3) complete regular season play on Tuesday at Prasie Academy in Powder Springs. EXCEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY BOYS 80, THE STONEHAVEN SCHOOL 60 The Excel Christian Academy boys celebrated their senior class on Wednesday night with an 80-60 home win over The Stonehaven School in region play. The Eagles led 25-7 after one quarter and were never threatened. Mason McKinney led all scorers with 28 points for ECA. Christian Viera followed with 14, and Karden Wingard added 10 points for the Eagles.  Asher Dollar led The Stonehaven School with 16 points. Peter Smit scored 15, and Emmanuel Vernon added 13 for the Knights (0-12, 0-5). Excel Christian (18-6, 6-0) hosts Hills Academy on Saturday at 2 p.m. and welcomes Holy Ground Baptist Academy on Monday for a 7:30 p.m. tip.

January 28, 2026 Charles Wilson / BartowSportsZone.com Local high school basketball teams returned to action on Tuesday night with the Cartersville High teams completing regular-season sweeps of the Cass girls and boys. The Adairsville Lady Tigers also earned a non-region win at Ringgold. CARTERSVILLE GIRLS 74, CASS 47 Sophomore Blakely Morris recorded a double-double on Tuesday at Cass in the Lady Canes' win. The Lady Canes continued their strong run in Region 7-AAAA play with a convincing 74-47 road victory at Cass on Tuesday evening. Cartersville led 22-14 after one quarter and built on the lead in each period. The Lady Canes led 45-30 at halftime and 55-39 through three quarters. Trinity Montgomery led the balanced Cartersville attack with 22 points, adding four rebounds and four assists. Kaytlin Arnold poured in 18 points and disrupted Cass with four steals. Zoe McCurry contributed 16 points, four steals, and four assists, while Blakely Morris grabbed 22 rebounds to go with 10 points and four assists. Sophomore Trinity Montgomery scored a game-high 22 points on Tuesday vs. Cass. Cadie Paez and Yvonne Ellison paced Cass, each scoring 13 points. Anizah Taylor added 10 points for the Lady Colonels. The Lady Colonels (8-11, 7-3) host Cedartown on Thursday at 6 p.m. Cartersville returns to the Storm Center on Friday to host Hiram at 6 p.m. (Focused on the Field photos.) CARTERSVILLE BOYS 76, CASS 41 Xavier Lowe poured in 21 points in the Canes' 76-41 win Tuesday at Cass. The Purple Hurricanes continued their unbeaten run through Region 7-AAAA on Tuesday night with a convincing road win at Cass. Cartersville doubled the Colonels’ first-half production to lead 42-21 at the intermission and rolled in the second half for a 35-point victory. Xavier Lowe led the way for the Canes with a game-high 21 points. Grayson Warmack added 13 points, while Kyron McClendon and Wyatt Thomason each contributed 10 points. Isaiah Moreno paced the Colonels with 10 points. Cartersville (17-3, 10-0) welcomes Hiram on Friday. Cass (5-14, 4-6) entertains Cedartown on Thursday. ADAIRSVILLE GIRLS 57, RINGGOLD 49 The Adairsville girls held on in the second half for a non-region win at Ringgold on Tuesday evening, 57-49. Adairsville trailed 17-11 after the opening eight minutes, but rallied for a one-point lead at halftime, 27-26. Adairsville outscored Ringgold 11-6 in the third period, then held on for an eight-point win. Savannah Viktora and Lily Roberts led Adairsville with 15 and 13 points, respectively. Ava Moriakis paced Ringgold (11-8) with 22 points. Jersey Rae Loy added 18. The Adairsville girls (9-13) return to Region 7-AAA action and host Ridgeland on Friday at 6 p.m. RINGGOLD 69, ADAIRSVILLE BOYS 55 The Ringgold Tigers defeated the Adairsville Tigers in a non-region tilt at Ringgold on Tuesday night, 69-55. Ringgold led 38-24 at halftime and held a 54-37 advantage leading into the final period. Trevor Jones scored a game-high 30 points for Ringgold (12-7). Asher Goodwin contributed 13 points, and Trent Bender added 12 for the host Tigers. Lucas Poarch posted 16 points for Adairsville. Brooks Rutledge added 11. Adairsville (2-20) hosts Ridgeland on Friday. ALLATOONA 53, WOODLAND GIRLS 32 The Lady Buccaneers evened their Region 7-AAAA mark with a 53-32 home win over the Woodland Lady Cats on Tuesday, 53-32. Allatoona (8-12, 5-5) led Woodland 20-7 at the intermission and exploded for a 42-14 lead by the end of the third period. Sophie Macurak led the Lady Bucs with 18 points. Brooke Rothrauff and Riley Lumpkin each added nine points for Allatoona. Destiny Jackson produced a double-double for the Lady Cats with 20 points and 13 rebounds as the Woodland girls dropped their 16th straight. “Destiny had another solid game, but credit also goes to Bailey Gerstner and Angel Palmore for their outstanding defense,” commented Woodland head coach Whitney Wissing. Woodland (3-18, 0-10) travels to Dalton on Friday for a 6 p.m. tip. ALLATOONA 78, WOODLAND BOYS 43 The Woodland Wildcats lost a Region 7-AAAA contest at Allatoona on Tuesday, 78-43.  The host Buccaneers led 24-20 after one quarter; 45-24 at halftime; and 68-32 through three quarters en route to a 35-point victory. Allatoona improved to 13-7 overall and 7-3 in region play, solidifying the Bucs’ hold on third place in the region. Carter Turnbow led Allatoona with 18 points. Julien Joachim followed with 15 points. Andre Dupree and Mike Watson contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively. Amir Heath led the Wildcats with 10 points. Canden Davis and Landon Dougherty each added eight points. Woodland (8-13, 1-9) plays at Dalton on Friday night. THE KING’S ACADEMY 79, EXCEL CHRISTIAN BOYS 63 The Excel Christian Academy boys dropped a 79-63 non-region decision at The King’s Academy of GIAA on Tuesday night in Woodstock. The Eagles trailed 43-27 at halftime, but narrowed their deficit to 50-49 by the end of the third quarter. The host Knights regained control over the final eight minutes and garnered a 16-point win. Brooks Thrasher led The King’s Academy (15-7) with 23 points. Tony LoPresti scored 17. Cole Bennett contributed 16 points, and Roger Wilson added 15. Mason McKinney scored 23 points to lead ECA. Jamari Gatson added 12 in the Eagles’ loss. Excel Christian (17-6, 5-0) returns to GAPPS region play on Wednesday with a home game against The Stonehaven School. The Eagles also host Hills Academy of Conyers on Saturday afternoon.