The Lee University Lady Flames did an outstanding job throughout the 2007-08 season. This excellence carried right into the NAIA National tournament, which boasted plenty of exemplary women’s programs, including our very own Lady Flames.

The Flames clinched a first round 66-60 victory over Brescia University, becoming the first Lee women’s basketball team to attain this in school history. The Flames led most of the game, but roles were reversed, leaving the Flames down 58-57 with 2:06 left. Jan Dodson’s free- throws, a pivotal timeout, a Dodson steal and a Fallon Lee three-pointer sealed the deal.

The win against Brescia was a first in national tournament play, since Coach Rowe, Dodson and Still came to Lee from Brescia four years ago. Still helped lead Lee to victory with 21 points, three steals and four rebounds. Aaron Richmond was not far behind with 15 points. Other players in double figures were Lee with 11 and Dodson with 10.

The Lady Flames’ record setting season was halted with a second round 76-60 loss to Lubbock (Texas) Christian University. Sophomore Katie Nelson paced Lee with 14 points and four rebounds, Dodson had 13 points and five rebounds while playing with a foot injury, Freshman Brooke McKinnon had eight and Richmond had seven.

“We had a great year and unfortunately it ended a little disappointing, however, one game does not define how special our season was,” said Coach Rowe.

Lee finished their great year with many accolades; a winning record of 32-3, a winning streak of 27 games, a first win for Lee Women’s Basketball at the NAIA national tournament, and a first ever NAIA Division I Women’s Basketball Coaches First-Team All-American for Still.

Still scored 1,772 points in her four-year career and ranks fifth on Lee’s all-time scoring list. She is currently the top 3-point gunner with 365.

Dodson was named second-team All-American. Known for as a complete player, Dodson scored 1,396 points, grabbed 716 rebounds, and dished out 282 career assists while at Lee University.

Nelson was given NAIA All-American honorable mention. She averaged 14.4 points per game accompanied by 6.7 rebounds. In her first two seasons, Nelson has already accumulated 820 career points and 447 rebounds.

Seniors Dodson, Still, Richmond, Lee and Morgan McConico-Lewis should be proud of the dazzling four-year run and record-shattering season.

“I’m very proud of each team member and what they brought to the court. I’m also sad to see our seniors leave our program, but they have done a great job of helping elevate our program to a new level,” said Rowe.

“It would be impossible to write a single paragraph about something as special as this season and our team. It’s something you pour your heart into. You don’t just walk away from the game or the relationships you’ve made,” admitted a humble Still.

Lee University women’s basketball team didn’t just have teamwork, they had community, chemistry and unwavering resolve. The end result was a deep push into the National tournament spotlight, further than any other women’s basketball team had gone in history. Congratulations to the Lady Flames. Lee University is proud to call you our own.