Being a defending state champion is ideal, except for the pressure that accompanies it for a rebuilding team. So far, Lourdes is handling that well.

Against Lake Highlands, Smith scored a career-high 22 points and also added seven rebounds. She is currently averaging 13 points per game. Coach Tracie Robbins said Smith is a versatile player with a deadly three-point shooting ability that can stretch beyond the arc and great potential.

Here are the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches girls high school basketball state rankings for Dec. 9, 2024.

Ontario Christian cemented its position atop the rankings by beating Mater Dei in the Troy Classic championship game.