Issue #3 (continued) | De Queen Lady Leopards – 2025 4A Girls State Champions
Back on Top: Lady Leopards Capture First Title Since 2003
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By FAB44TV Insider
Lady Leopards Make History and Shalyn Lyle Takes Center Stage
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (March 14, 2025) The Bank OZK Arena was electric as the De Queen Lady Leopards ended a 22-year title drought, upending undefeated Pulaski Academy, 62-54, to claim their second Arkansas 4A state crown. More than just a team victory, the game showcased the poise and leadership of senior point guard Shalyn Lyle, whose MVP performance defined the championship.
A Season of Redemption
Last season De Queen limped to a 12‑16 finish. Enter Bret Burgess, a championship proven coach who brought a new defensive edge and his stepdaughters Shalyn and Jessie back to their hometown. The payoff? A stunning 35‑1 record and the program’s first title since 2003.
Championship Game Recap
It was a clash between two juggernauts Pulaski Academy, riding into the finals with a perfect 36–0 record, and De Queen, a battle-tested squad carrying the weight of a 20-year title drought.
From the opening tip, the Lady Leopards were the aggressors. Their full-court pressure disrupted Pulaski’s rhythm, leading to 12 first-half turnovers and setting the tone for the night. De Queen’s defense swarmed passing lanes, fought through screens, and forced the Bruins into rushed possessions.
By halftime, it was clear the Lady Leopards weren’t just here to play. They were here to win. Shalyn Lyle, the senior guard and emotional heartbeat of the team, earned 4A State Tournament MVP honors with an all-around stat line 11 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and relentless energy that lifted her team at every critical moment. She wasn’t alone. Emma Chambers, a junior guard with a scorer’s mentality, dropped a team-high 13 points, hitting timely jumpers that sparked runs. Jessie Lyle, Shalyn’s sister, added 12 points, her poise under pressure matching the moment. Landri Liggin, another junior, provided a steady offensive presence with 11 points. And Ellie Morphew, the senior forward, owned the paint with 12 rebounds and countless second-chance efforts.
Championship Moments
The Lady Leopards roared out to a 30‑20 halftime lead, pestering the Bruins into 12 turnovers. Pulaski Academy fought back, tying it at 50 with 4:30 left. Then came the veteran calm: Shalyn sank two clutch free throws with 1:24 remaining to restore a six‑point cushion and effectively slam the door.
The team’s relentless defense forced 20 turnovers and kept Pulaski Academy at a frigid 16 % from beyond the arc.
The Shalyn Effect
Before this season, Shalyn Lyle was already on colleges’ radar, averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and over 4 assists per game. She and Jessie, both committed to Arkansas Tech, returned to De Queen determined to write a storybook ending. Her MVP showing in the final along with leadership across the entire year underlines why she’s a generational player for the program.
What’s Next
The Lady Leopards’ 2025 title run has cemented their status in Arkansas hoops lore. Local legislatures took notice: the Arkansas House (Resolution 1087) and Texas Senate (Resolution 659) singled out Shalyn for MVP honors citizenportal.ai capitol.texas.gov. As she heads to Arkansas Tech, Shalyn leaves behind a legacy of tenacity, clutch scoring and championship heart – a standard for future Leopards to follow.
FAB44TV Insider Grade
- Program Rebuilt
- Culture Restored
- Queens of 4A
Watch the Championship Game
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