After being ineligible for postseason play last year due to UIL rules violations, Duncanville reclaimed their position at State by defeating South Grand Prairie 59-41 on Saturday at the Alamodome in San Antonio, securing their 12th state title and their first since 2020.

The past three years, the Pantherettes had to watch as their rivals from DeSoto competed in the final game of the season. This time, Duncanville made a triumphant return to the top.

Coach Ford served as the boys' interim head basketball coach at Duncanville, leading the team to a remarkable 29-1 record and a No. 3 national ranking. However, similar to the girls' team, the boys were ineligible for the postseason. Duncanville’s resurgence was led by Mariah Clayton, who was named the MVP of the championship game.

Clayton showcased her skills by scoring 18 points in the semifinal victory against Summer Creek on Friday and followed up with 19 points and 9 rebounds in the finals against South Grand Prairie. Cincinnati signee Chloe Mann contributed 13 points for Duncanville, which finished the season with a 35-4 record. The Pantherettes suffered their only losses to in-state opponents this year against DeSoto and Summer Creek.

Taylor Barnes led the scoring for SGP with 14 points, while Taliyah Parker contributed 10 points in the loss.