The NFEI girls’ basketball team is moving on to the Final Four for the first time in team history! Yes we’ve seen the boys basketball team make it to Lakeland several times, but the girls program has come just short of the achievement. That is until now.. the Eagles dominated Eagles View with a 51-19 victory in the Elite 8, continuing their impressive playoff run.
Kamara Leads the Charge
As she has all season, Sawsan Kamara stepped up in a big way, leading the Eagles to another statement win. Kamara, who averages 14.0 points per game, has been the team’s go-to scorer throughout the season. But she’s not alone—NFEI has multiple players who can put up big numbers. Beyonce Jedinie (11.8 ppg), Jannell Houston (9.5 ppg), and Jordann Sibley (9.6 ppg) all contribute to the team’s high-powered offense.
A Strong Playoff Run
Under Head Coach Tony Bannister, NFEI has been unstoppable in the postseason. Before their latest victory, they crushed Countryside Christian 57-20 in the first round, with Kamara leading all scorers with 22 points. They followed that up with a dominant 76-25 win over Seven Rivers Christian, where Houston put up a game-high 20 points.
Family First
Their success isn’t surprising—NFEI proved themselves all season long, including a big regular-season win over Ribault. The team is close, and the players are young but confident like a family. That’s because of their head coach Tony Bannister. Bannister built a Nationally respected championship program at Potter’s House with multiple state titles. He draws up the plays along with Antoinette Bannister, and Lurise Bannister.
Said Antoinette Bannister “as a 6th grader playing for her Dad in Lakeland and won a State Championship… Now you have the opportunity to go and win it as a Coach with me… To God Be The Glory!” Now, they have their sights set on an even bigger challenge: a state championship at NFEI through the current FHSAA route.
Final Four Matchup
Next up, NFEI will face Central Florida Christian in the state semifinals. Their opponent is led by Soraya Jokhan, who averages 10.4 points per game. It will be a tough battle, but NFEI has been playing some of its best basketball at the right time.
With their strong defense, balanced scoring, and a deep playoff run already under their belt, the Eagles are ready for the challenge. One more win puts them in the state championship game—can they keep their momentum going? Stay tuned!
