On the evening of “Friday the 13th”, 2015, the 1975 Girls State Basketball Champs from Bassfield High School celebrated their 40-year reunion.  It was not only filled with “good luck” but the type of experience one would place on their “bucket list”!

The thrills began at Bassfield High’s library where the Yellowjacket Booster Club along with the Principal, Mrs. Sylvia Fairley-Hall, kindly welcomed us to a reception with cake and punch, honoring our achievement.

Afterwards, everyone assembled at the gym prior to the basketball game.  Deceased teammates, Ethel Lee McLeod and Shirley Myers, were lovingly represented by a family member as they lit a candle in their memory.  Introductions of the teammates, bookkeeper, and coaches were announced center court, while a banner was displayed of the only girls’ basketball championship in the history of BHS!

Charlotte and Hal Applewhite graciously invited everyone to their beautiful, warm-hearted home for delicious hors d’oeuvres.  There was continued sharing of our life stories, accomplishments, and memories of our time together.

Much appreciation goes to the Yellowjacket Booster Club and Principal Mrs. Fairley-Hall.  Also, a cheer of thanks is passed on to Patricia Reese, Valerie Davis and Charlotte Daley for being the contact committee.  Hal and Charlotte Applewhite are given much gratitude for being invaluable hosts!

In regard to Coach Willis Lott… without his initiation of this event, it would not have been forthcoming.  When thoughts of Coach Lott arise, only positive words come to mind.  The team learned the fundamentals of basketball, work ethic, how to set and achieve goals with dedication and soul power!  The life skills we gained were   learned by observing Coach Lott living his life as an example! To describe this event in one word… priceless!